The words that come to mind a week after SXSWi:

• insight
• opportunity
• exhaustion

After preparing for half of the semester, I can say it was worth it. This massive event really takes prepping if you want to really make the best of your days.

Insight is probably the thing I’m most grateful for. I was able to see into the future in a sense, and that makes me a valuable graduating master’s student.

At SXSWi, I was able to get a glimpse of where technology is going and how I can start preparing as a mass communication student.

My main take away: The future is wearable technology.

It’s daunting to think how close our technology is to us, but it’s only going to get closer. Closer to us physically and emotionally.

Some say they don’t like personalized ads on social media, but one panel I attended, the discussion was about predictions for more personalized experiences and marketing efforts for wearable technology. This also sparks new questions on privacy.

Wearables will be the next big thing, and it was a great opportunity to not only hear about it, but use it myself. The SXTXState team was able to use Google Glass during this experience.

Although there’s much improvement to be made, wearables are next and that means an even more personalized experience.

This insight gives way to research ideas for graduate students and brainstorming sessions for my marketing team at work.

SXSW is just such a great way to stay ahead, gain inspiration, and innovate.

I feel inspired to do something. More importantly, I feel empowered to do something.