Eric Vanden Eykel
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evandeneykel.bsky.social
Eric Vanden Eykel
@evandeneykel.bsky.social
Ph.D. Christian Origins, Associate Professor of Religious Studies @ Ferrum College. Black Lives Matter. Views expressed here are my own, and do not reflect the views of my employer.

he/him
And what exactly is wrong with my occupation! I run a candle making business out of my garage!
November 21, 2025 at 3:26 PM
What a wonderfully pleasant surprise! Safe travels!
November 21, 2025 at 2:14 PM
“I sell insurance.”
November 21, 2025 at 1:42 PM
Thanks I hate it.
November 21, 2025 at 1:13 PM
Do not take pleasure in my suffering
November 21, 2025 at 1:06 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
One I'm still struggling with, but it's so important: you don't need to be in sessions/papers all day, every day. Take breaks! - and: take a few hours in the book exhibition to browse through books and also to just meet people. (My personal happy place)
November 19, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
Get free food and drinks in the evenings by reception-hopping. Do at least three receptions to ensure a balanced diet.
November 20, 2025 at 12:27 AM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
New conference advice: the AARSBL25 app has a messaging feature, so you can now message folks whose numbers you don’t have to meet for food/coffee/receptions!
November 19, 2025 at 11:53 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
Totally fine to hop in/out of sessions (try to do so discretely by sitting near the back). Pace thyself with free alchohol—fatigue, dehydration and nerves can make one drink go further than you might expect. Whether making your schedule or chatting with others, be curious about work beyond your area
November 19, 2025 at 7:59 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
Is is DRY. Bring lip balm. You too, mens. Also: Pick up all the free swag and give it to your students later.
November 19, 2025 at 11:41 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
Department receptions are places for alums to gather but most are also open to anyone. Feel free to drop in and meet people.
November 19, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
Get a conference buddy. There are weird moments and points where you have down time so have a friend you can touch base, meet up, or process whatever strange encounter you just had (which will happen). #AARSBL25
November 19, 2025 at 4:42 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
It's cool and expected for you to introduce yourself to people---we're there to meet each other! If you don't feel like you can just go right up to someone, know that there are friends who will make the connection for you, just ask!
November 19, 2025 at 3:53 PM
Reposted by Eric Vanden Eykel
#SBLAAR25: breakfast is one of the most expensive/inconvenient meals at conferences. on day 1 find a grocery/convenience store near your hotel & stock up on a few days worth of yogurt, cereal, etc. so you can save money & breakfast in your PJs.
November 19, 2025 at 3:10 PM
Dodge the train get hit by the bus.
November 21, 2025 at 1:32 AM
On why myths do, in fact, matter.

www.tiktok.com/t/ZTMoThfhn/
Replying to @Hassleback
TikTok video by Eric Vanden Eykel
www.tiktok.com
November 18, 2025 at 11:46 PM