How scientific conferences are like music festivals

Fresh out of the nightly brainfart department, a short look at the similarities between scientific conferences and music festivals as well as some tips and tricks that apply to both:

• The bigger conferences often feature parallel sessions not unlike how music festivals can have multiple stages and concerts at the same time.
  

  Tip:  Take a look at the schedule beforehand and choose the talks/concerts you really must see beforehand, so you don’t miss out on anything important during the event.

• The keynote speakers are like the headliners at a festival: big names in the field who are allowed more time to present their work.
  

  Tip: Keynotes and headline shows got that spot for a reason, while there are exceptions, in general you can expect high quality content and good delivery, so be sure to attend.

• Big conferences and festivals can span multiple action-packed days and therefore be really exhausting.
  

  Tip: Eat and drink well to maintain your energy levels and just hang in there. Big conferences/festivals only come around once a year and you might not get the chance to go every year, so make the most of your time there!