Getting out there

One of the best ways to learn more about Linux is to get out and see what other people are doing with Linux. Usually this involves attending local LUGs (Linux User Groups), volunteering at Installfests, taking a trip to Comdex, and checking out local web boards and USENET newsgroups for information about local events. Nothing happening in your area, get something going in a newsgroup or web board.

I first met John "Mad dog" Hall of Linux International a couple of years ago when he came to speak at The University of Waterloo. Being a punctual guy I came early. I'd never been in the room before and wanted to make sure I could find it. When I found the room it was completely empty so I found a spot and sat down. I expected a few people would arrive to set up, but to my surprise the next person who arrived was John himself. He spent about 20 minutes talking about various things before anyone else came. It was a very enlightening experience.

I met John again when he came to speak at RIM this year, but it wasn't the one on one experience from the year before. This time I met a cool guy who was giving out a few surplus copies of O'Reilly's Make magazine, a very cool magazine about hardware hacking.