My EuroBSDCon Experience in Dublin

submited by

Style Pass

2025-01-16 12:00:12

The idea of taking part in EuroBSDCon first came to mind in 2023. Coimbra would have been a great location for returning to a conference after many years, but unfortunately I couldn’t make it. When the call for registration in Dublin approached, I decided that would be the right occasion. In the meantime, the BSD Cafe project had been launched, and the welcoming enthusiasm it received provided a strong push. I thought I might propose a talk. My work involves BSD systems daily with a variety of clients, and sharing how I’ve managed (and still manage) the transition from Linux to the BSDs might interest the community.

I still remember that moment in June when I clicked “Submit”. I told my wife, “Whether as a speaker or as a participant, in September we’re going to Dublin.” She works with me, so she would also attend the conference. It was one of the best ideas in recent years.

I still recall when, on my way to the office, I glanced at my smartwatch notification: my talk had been accepted. In an instant, I felt two distinct, intense emotions: enthusiasm and terror. I have no issues with public speaking, but doing it again in English at such an event… In reality, that fear was unfounded, as I would only discover two months later.