I'm so excited and fearful about the Java in Action conference it's sort of invaded my world.

The problem that I'm having is that I don't quite know what to think. On one hand, I'm terribly excited about going and meeting some people I've worked with for a long time but never met in person before. On the other, I'm fearful because I want to be seen as a peer and a professional and not as some snot-nosed punk clueless developer. And, of course, I always fear the latter.

This is my first job-related conference, I've been to other technical conferences before, but always as just a hobbyist (I went to Comdex one year a decade ago). Sure it was fun, but I didn't bring anything back except a few good stories. I didn't learn anything and I certainly didn't meet anyone. I've got a really good feeling about this conference though. I've read the blogs of some of the presenters, and I've heard good things about lots of people that will be there. So I've got a lot to look forward to and a lot to accomplish while I'm there.

My biggest goal is to bring something home. Something that I can say: "This conference was worth the time". Be it new contacts, or new ideas, or even a feeling of renewed love for the environment that I work it. Anymore now when I think about it I get more excited than fearful and so I've got a really good feeling about this whole thing.

So, you want to meet me and a slew of other great Java devs? Then I suggest you register and get your flight in order. The JIA conference runs from October 5-7 in sunny Orlando, FL. Just head on over to the website and find out all the information you need.