FAQ

Where will the Social Media 2019 Conference take place?
The conference will take place in Chicago, IL at the University of Chicago.

When is the Social Media Conference and when should I arrive?
The conference dates are Friday, October 11 through Sunday, October 13, 2019. The majority of attendees should plan to arrive by mid-afternoon on Friday, October 11. The conference ends at 12:00pm on Sunday, October 13, 2019.

When can I register?
Formal invitations will be sent in late August. Official registration will open at the same time. Go to:  https://siebelai.org.

Are there registration fees for the conference?
There is no formal registration fee as this is an invitation-only event. Airfare and travel expenses will be paid for Siebel Scholars in the class of 2020.

How can I book a hotel reservation? What are the hotel rates?
We are holding a very limited number of rooms at the Hilton Chicago. The room rate is $289 per night plus tax.  If you would like a room please send an email to info@ssfreg.com with your requested hotel dates.  Other local options in Chicago include:

• • AirBNB – www.airbnb.com
  • VRBO – www.vrbo.com

FYI – The conference is the same weekend as the Chicago Marathon so book early as accommodations are filling up fast.

Which airport should I fly into?
There are two major airports that are accessible to Chicago, IL.

• • Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Travel Distance – 25.5 miles to University of Chicago
  • Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): Travel Distance – 9 miles to University of Chicago

What is the weather like in October in Chicago, IL?
In mid-October, daytime high temperatures tend to range in the low 60s F (about 17C) and overnight low temperatures around 50 F (about 10C). There is a slight chance of rain as Chicago averages 2.9” of rainfall in October.

Will transportation be provided?
Yes, shuttle service between the hotel and various venues will be provided. Also, transportation to and from the airport will be provided on Friday, October 11th and on Sunday, October 13th only. Specific time periods will apply.

What if I have special needs such as dietary restrictions or allergies?
Any specific needs can be addressed through registration. You can also send an email to SSF@siebel.org.

What is the recommended conference attire?
For evening events, Friday night is cocktail/business attire and the Saturday Gala is casual attire. Panel sessions, presentations and breakfasts are business casual.

Can I bring a colleague?
The conference is invitation only. If you would like a colleague to attend the conference, you can request that we include their name and credentials on a wait list and see if space becomes available as we get closer to the date.

Can I bring a guest such as my significant other?
Unfortunately, guests (significant others, friends and children) are not permitted to attend any conference activities as the event has doubled in size for our Scholars over the last few years.

Is there an age minimum?
You must be at least 21 years of age to attend the conference.

What is the common language spoken at the 2019 Conference?
The official language of the conference is English. All sessions will be presented in English. Translation services will not be provided.

How do I request a visa invitation?
You can request a visa invitation letter to assist in obtaining your visa to attend the conference. Please send an email to SSF@siebel.org with the following information:

• • Email subject: Visa request
  • First name as listed on passport
  • Last name as listed on passport
  • Full name as listed on registration
  • Country of origin
  • Passport number
  • Passport expiration date
  • Date of birth
  • Full address of your local United States embassy/consulate

Please note that by requesting a visa invitation letter, this does not guarantee that your local authorities will grant a visa to attend the 2019 Social Media Conference.

Who do I contact if I have special requests or questions?
Please contact SSF@siebel.org.  Replies will be sent within 24 hours depending on time of day.

Are you issuing press passes to the conference?
A limited number of press passes will be made available. For details please contact SSF@siebel.org.