South by Southwest has been an amazing experience. Exhausting, but amazing. My brain has absorbed so much information and I have had the chance to meet so many inspiring and influential people. There have been fun times, serious times, exhausting times and inspiring times. Here are my top 10 takeaways from the event (funny and serious):

1. Creativity is key, but you don’t force it. 
2. Ideas are everywhere.
3. Having a free beer in the middle of the day is totally necessary, and ok!
4. Talking to people isn’t as scary as it seems
5. It’s all about the tacos
6. Take advantage of every experience you get, big or small
7. Just because someone is influential in an industry doesn’t mean they aren’t a normal person
8. Timing is everything
9. Caffeine is crucial for survival (This is already known, but it needed to be reiterated)
10. SXSW is one of the greatest experiences you can have, no matter what your industry.

Although this is a simple list, I feel like it speaks volumes. At least from my own perspective. Obviously, everyone has a different experience and may have their own takeaways but it seemed  right to solidify my thoughts into words.

Although Cindy Royal already gave people many thanks, I would also like to express appreciation. Mostly to Cindy and the entire Texas State School of Journalism and Mass Communication staff. If it weren’t for them, the five of us would not have been able to attend SXSW.  I’d also like to recognize my fellow teammates – their passion, strength and ability to still have a good time even though they are exhausted and stressed. They were a big part in making this project great.  I am excited for what is to come and hope many more SXSW experiences are in my future.