As a First Timer at a JCI European conference, I approached it in a Dr Pepper "what's the worst that could happen" fashion. On paper, the concept sounds rather strange. I mentioned it to some people at work and I did get some rather quizzical looks. I mean taking a week off work and flying to Budapest to do some training with JCI does seem odd. However, having been there, done it and bought the T-shirt, it turned out to be a great experience which I would highly recommend to any JCI member, new or old.

Not only was Budapest a great backdrop for the conference, with glorious sunshine (it was 28 degrees when I arrived), architecture, culture and Turkish baths, the key ingredients for a successful conference seem to be thousands of people from all across Europe, throw in some excellent training, a few parties in unbelievable locations and very friendly and welcoming Team Scotland who were pure dead brilliant!

The training sessions run by JCI trainers from around the world were inspiring. Patrick Knight's "Do you want to get lucky?" looked at creating opportunities and how our mindset often plays a part in how we look at life. Rather than applying Murphy's Law when we expect everything that can go wrong, will go wrong, Patrick suggested that by adopting a positive outlook on life and seeing ourselves as lucky, we will feel lucky in all aspects of our life. I am working on applying this to my life.

I also attended a seminar on DISC personality profiling which was enlightening. Using the DISC system as a tool to understanding ourselves and others, we considered each aspect of DISC (Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Conscientiousness) and how our personalities determine how we act around others.

The party nights were also fantastic. I really enjoyed the Danish and Serbian nights held at the Citadel. It was such an impressive venue overlooking the city. The band at the Serbian party was great and I can honestly say I have not danced so much or consumed as much alcohol in the space of 5 consecutive nights as in Budapest. If you like a bit of Euro pop, circa early 1990s, which I do, then you will definitely like European Conference. Of course, who knows what European Conference 2010 in Aarhus, Denmark will be like - I'll have to try it out to compare to Budapest.

The European Conference was a great way to get to know more about JCI. It made me aware of the international reach of JCI and that I am part of an international community of like minded individuals who want to "Be Better".

Thanks to all of Team Scotland who made me feel welcome.

Elaine Frew