The MVP Summit has always been a gathering of some of the most passionate, knowledgeable, and engaged members of the Microsoft community. While last few years it was a hybrid event, I was unable to attend in person in 2024, making the experience in 2025 even more meaningful.

The joy of walking into the Microsoft campus, meeting product teams face-to-face, and engaging in spontaneous conversations is unparalleled. The serendipity of hallway discussions, the excitement of whiteboarding sessions, and the thrill of hands-on experiences make this a deeply enriching event. These moments are where innovation happens—not just in structured sessions, but in the impromptu collaborations that emerge over coffee or during an evening gathering.

Networking takes on an entirely different dimension in person. While virtual meetings can be effective, nothing beats the human connection of shaking hands, exchanging ideas in real time, and feeling the collective enthusiasm of a room full of like-minded experts. Seeing old friends, making new ones, and finally putting faces to familiar names adds to the camaraderie that defines the MVP community.

Additionally, the Summit is an opportunity to gain exclusive insights into the future of Microsoft technologies. Being there in person means having direct conversations with product teams, asking deeper questions, and getting unfiltered feedback that is harder to replicate in virtual settings. The ability to experience new features firsthand, provide live input, and engage in deep technical dives fosters an invaluable sense of participation and contribution.

While the thrill of being at the MVP Summit in person is undeniable, there are also advantages to missing out and embracing the virtual experience. The “Joy of Missing Out” (JOMO) is real, and for some, skipping the travel while still engaging in key conversations can be just as rewarding.

One of the biggest benefits is flexibility. Attending virtually means no long flights, no jet lag, and no time away from home or work responsibilities. For those with family commitments or demanding schedules, the ability to participate from anywhere without disrupting daily life is a major plus.

Virtual participation also allows for a more focused engagement. Without the distractions of travel, side conversations, or the exhaustion of back-to-back in-person sessions, attendees can tailor their experience, choosing sessions that matter most without feeling obligated to attend every social event or meeting. The recorded content often provides the flexibility to revisit key discussions at a more convenient time, making learning more effective. Also I heard about some people listening to two sessions simultaneously!

Cost savings are another factor. The expenses associated with flights, hotels, and meals can add up quickly. A virtual event removes these barriers, making it accessible to more MVPs who might not have been able to attend otherwise. This inclusivity ensures that more voices are heard and more perspectives are shared, even from those who may not be physically present.

Finally, remote participation enables a different kind of networking. Engaging through chat, forums, and dedicated virtual Q&A sessions can sometimes be less intimidating than approaching someone in person. It also allows for more structured and meaningful follow-ups, as discussions can transition seamlessly into ongoing digital conversations.

In the end, whether one attends the Microsoft MVP Summit in person or virtually, both experiences offer unique joys. The magic of in-person connection is irreplaceable, but the comfort and efficiency of virtual engagement provide their own set of rewards. Ultimately, what matters most is the shared passion for technology, learning, and community that defines the MVP experience—no matter where you are.