RIGG 2024: Insider Tips for a Seamless Experience

By Tracie Boyle

The Ramapo Investigative Genetic Genealogy Conference (RIGG 2024) will be here before we know it. To help you get prepared and know what to expect, I wanted to share some helpful tips.

As a local, I had the option to commute, but staying on-campus last year proved incredibly convenient with everything centralized. Sessions and events were just a 5-10 minute walk away, meals were provided, and it provided ample opportunities to connect and mingle with fellow attendees late into the evenings in the residence hall common areas, swapping stories and experiences. I’m looking forward to those memorable moments again this year!

If you choose to stay on campus during the conference, you’ll be in Bischoff Hall. Each room has two extra long twin beds (don’t worry, you won’t have a roommate – all rooms are private during the conference!), a large desk, chair, bookshelves, closets, and a private bathroom. They are also equipped with air conditioning, a microwave, mini-fridge, and Wi-Fi access. However, please note that televisions are not provided. But hey, who needs TV when you’ve got all this excitement around you, right?

If you’re curious about what the rooms look like, feel free to check out some 360° images of the rooms here.

Additionally, the building offers lounges on each floor, vending machines, complimentary laundry facilities, and nearby parking. There are seating areas, both indoor and outdoor, in the residence halls.

With all these features, you’re in for a convenient and comfortable stay. However, it’s not the same as a hotel – you may benefit from bringing a few creature comforts along:

• Comfortable clothes and walking shoes for sessions during the day. The Ramapo campus is beautiful, although hilly, but also fully accessible.
• For the evening Dinner/Receptions (Friday & Saturday), it might be a good idea to pack some dressier attire, but full formalwear isn’t necessary.
• Extra phone chargers and power banks to keep your devices charged.
• Snacks and a reusable or collapsible water bottle (water refill stations available).
• While coffee is provided with breakfast and available for purchase in The Atrium, please note that Dunkin Donuts and Common Grounds may not be open during this year’s conference. If you’re someone who loves coffee as much as I do, think about bringing your own Keurig, personal brewer, or instant coffee.
• Toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc. 
• Linens are provided in each room, but the towels are on the small side – these packable towels fit easily in your suitcase without taking up too much space.
• Hair dryer, straightener, or curling iron if needed for styling.
• Consider bringing your preferred type of toilet paper if you’re particular, although toilet paper is provided..
• Earplugs or an eye mask for better sleep if you’re sensitive to noise or light.
• Medications and first aid supplies, such as bandaids, that you may need.
• Laptop/tablet and chargers if needed for note-taking.
• Small portable fan or extra blanket based on your temperature preferences.
• Personal items for productivity and comfort during the conference (notebook, pen/pencil, business cards, etc.).

No need to stress if you forget something! You’ve got convenient options nearby with Acme, ShopRite, and Walmart just a quick 10-minute drive away, or easily accessible via rideshare. Plus, the Student Center might also be open for any last-minute necessities.

And since there will be downtime in the evenings, consider bringing along a card game or another travel-sized game to keep the fun going. How about a lively game of Murder We Wrote with your newfound friends in the lounge?

If you have any other suggestions, tips or questions, please feel free to leave them on our social media posts on Facebook or Twitter/X.

We can’t wait to welcome you to RIGG 2024! Wishing you a safe travels, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone soon!! Tickets are selling fast and dorms are only available through March 31 – reserve your spot now!

Categories: RIGG