When you're coming to the NAFSA 2025 Annual Conference & Expo, you're connecting with a global community of people who share an interest in bridging cultures and creating opportunities for higher education students and educators worldwide. You’ll meet peers who inspire you, mentors who guide you, and collaborators who may spark your next big idea. The friendships and professional networks you build at NAFSA's Annual Conference can last a lifetime, enriching your personal and professional journey in ways you can't predict. Explore these connections at various different networking opportunities built into the NAFSA 2025 Annual Conference & Expo conference schedule.

Ways to Network at the Conference

There's countless ways to network at the conference in designated spaces where you can talk with your peers in more personalized settings. Here are some suggestions for easy networking during your conference experience:

• Visit a Community Center: Participate in one of their Community Dialogues to discuss hot topics and trends in the field
• Stop by the Bayside Studio: Immerse yourself in fun activities centered around the host city, San Diego, CA
• Experience the International Education Expo: The Expo is a global market place that features over 400 exhibitors, and the best place to meet people
• Learn more at the Poster Fairs: Meet presenters at the poster fairs within the expo hall to find out more about the research and projects they're managing
• Engage with NAFSA Interest Groups: Attend a NAFSA Interest Group open meeting to meet people with similar interests and identities
• Volunteer: Volunteer at the conference to meet countless individuals in a short space of time. This is also a great way to receive discounts on conference registration.
• Download the conference app: Connect with attendees before and during the conference via the NAFSA 2025 Annual Conference & Expo mobile app (available in May)

Networking Events

First Timers' Networking Event
Monday, May 26, 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
Is this your first time at a NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo? Meet other first timers at this networking event specifically tailored to helping NAFSA's newest attendees meet other first timers (Included in registration fee)

Conference Kick-Off: Café y Churros!
Tuesday, May 27, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m.
Start the day and conference week with a visit to the Kick-Off Coffee (Included in registration fee)

Opening Celebration: Sailing into San Diego
Tuesday, May 27, 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
The Opening Celebration welcomes guests with a vibrant atmosphere, local cuisine, and music, and the celebratory, unifying vibe that characterizes San Diego (Included in registration fee) 

Closing Celebration: Orlando 2026 Citrus Bash
Friday, May 30, 12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Celebrate a successful and eventful conference and look ahead to next year’s memorable gathering at the Closing Celebration (Included in registration fee)