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Two Googlers share what it’s like to organize Connect Live

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Caption: A photo of Connect Live 2018 event organizers Traci (left) holding a pinwheel and Brittany (right) holding a Local Guides Android figurine in front of a wall with multicolored stripes.Caption: A photo of Connect Live 2018 event organizers Traci (left) holding a pinwheel and Brittany (right) holding a Local Guides Android figurine in front of a wall with multicolored stripes.Today we're sharing an interview between two Googlers who are working to make this year’s global event, Connect Live, possible. Local Guides, meet program manager, Traci (@TraciC) and events manager, Brittany (@brittym).

 

Traci: If it wasn’t part of your job, would you still be a Local Guide?

Brittany: Yes! I was actually a Local Guide before I joined the team. Being a Local Guide helps me keep track of where I’ve been in New York City, and I’ve made great use out of the Save and Want to go features on Maps since I’m new here and I want to try everything.

 

What about you?

 

Traci: I was also a Local Guide before I joined the team and have been contributing on Google Maps since around 2011. I love organizing my adventures and helping others everywhere I go. It’s in my DNA!

 

What are you most excited about for Connect Live 2018?

 

Brittany: I’ve met some of the attendees during Google Hangouts for Connect Moderators and the Summer Book Club, but meeting everyone in person for the first time will be fantastic. I’m also looking forward to the food, the entertainment, and the Googleplex! I’ve never been to Google HQ in Mountain View before.

 

What are you most excited for?

 

Traci: I’m also excited about meeting so many Local Guides in person after feeling like I’ve known them for so long. I’m also really looking forward to reconnecting with folks I’ve met before, too. Hugs for everyone!

 

Brittany: What’s the toughest part about organizing an event like this?

 

Traci: It’s really hard to not reveal all the surprises we have planned for everyone attending or following online. It’s kind of like when you get a gift for a friend, and you’re so excited about it that you want to tell them what it is, but you restrain yourself because you know it’ll be better as a surprise.

 

Brittany: I know exactly what you mean. I can’t wait for everyone to finally see what we have planned!

Traci: Me either! Do you have one place you love to go when you’re in San Francisco?

Brittany: Without a doubt, my favorite San Francisco attraction is Muir Woods. It’s one of the places where my mind drifts when I think about just how remarkable the world is. It’s an absolute can’t-miss.

 

But you’ve been to SF quite a few times. Do you have any helpful tips for visitors?

 

Traci: I always encourage people to explore, explore, explore. Don’t be afraid to venture outside of San Francisco, but pick a few key places you’d like to see and leave enough time to enjoy whatever comes your way like murals, beautiful vistas, and delicious bites.

 

Brittany: This year will be my first time at Connect Live. Do you have any advice for getting the most out of the event?

 

Traci: I sure do! First, enjoy every single minute and live in the moment because it goes fast. You can sleep when you get home or on the plane! Make new friends. It’s easy to stick by the folks you know but there are so many new people to meet. Also, don’t be shy. There will be nearly 100 Googlers at Connect Live this year, so it’s a great opportunity to share your thoughts and ideas.

 

We hope you enjoyed getting to know Traci and Brittany better! Whether you’re a Connect Live 2018 attendee or following along at home, tell us in the comments below: what do you want Googlers to know?

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