This year, I had the privilege of attending MBLGTACC 2017. A conference that, as of this year, has been alive and thriving for 25 years.

For those who don't know, MBLGTACC stands for the Midwestern Bi, Lesbian, Gay, Trans, Ace/Ally College Conference. It is always put on by students, and each year, it is held in a new location. This year, I was fortunate enough to be able to travel to Chicago to participate. Next year, however, it will be put on by the University of Nebraska Omaha.

This Conference covers everything from basic information to some more in-depth topics, such as marketing for an LGBT+ organization. The rooms of the large conference hall at Chicago's Navy Pier were all packed with people wanting to learn more about the LGBT+ community.

But now that we've covered the basics, I'd like to share my personal experience with you.

This was my first time ever attending the conference, and I have to say, I didn't really know what to expect going in. I didn't know if the speakers' words would resonate with me, or how accepting the people there would be.

However, as soon as I walked in, my worries were eased. I was struck by the sheer magnitude of the sense of community that everyone held toward each other. People I'd never met before welcomed me as a friend and would offer me the seat next to them in the crowded workshop rooms. I don't know if I've ever seen such a friendly group of people before.

On top of that, each speaker I saw was able to teach me something I didn't already know, whether that be about myself, or about the community as a whole. At several points, things that I'd never understood before suddenly became clear, and I began to feel like everything was starting to make sense again.

I attended forums and workshops on everything from poetry writing to the experience of religious LGBT+ individuals, the latter of which was probably my favorite talk of all. I learned new ways to communicate my thoughts to those who previously might not have listened. I learned that no part of me is contradictory, and that I am allowed to be who I am.

So even though I came to MBLGTACC not knowing what to expect, I left with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that were unlike anything else.

If you've never been before, I highly recommend it. It doesn't matter if you identify as an ally or as part of the larger community; the experience will be one you'll never forget.