Philly .NET Code(nerd) Camp

So, this Saturday I went to my first Code Camp. It was cool to know there were that many nerds(myself included) in the area (kind of my area). I could have done without all the Phillies gear (go Dodgers! or Rays! or Boston!). I learned a whole bunch. My personal favorite talk was about REST programming with Sam Gentile. I thought his talk was entertaining and informative. Great learn.

Two cool things happened, I was approached by a Microsoft Evangelist about their budding woman developer program. She explained that they are researching the desire for one.Apparently there are two schools of thought

"I'm a woman developer, therefore I am unique" and "I'm a woman developer, don't single me out." I guess we all know what school I am in,lol. I am quite proud of being a female developer. Not because it has been "hard" or I've been "discriminated against." Because I honestly believe being a female in this industry has been more of an advantage than a handicap. I just think it's different. I think there are things that are unique about us and I'd love to discuss it. Also, I'd love to learn what environment other women grew up in. That way we can learn how to make more of us!

I was also approached by a woman who wants to start a women's user group in NJ which is hardcore. It's funny because I have many male developer friends, and I love them, but there are some things I can't talk to them about. Even just last week after I had pulled an all nighter working I found myself wishing I had a woman to talk to about it. You know? It's just different. It's not sexist, I don't believe that sexism is recognizing the difference in the sexes. I think that the differences and overcoming some of them, is what makes today's woman awesome.

Anyway, all in all, good experience. Will write a longer review this week. I feel guilty because I got NO work done today and I had intended on doing a bunch.