Definitely a good thing to have a job lined up! I would try to get started much earlier than September 17th, maybe even on a volunteer basis ASAP. Basically I would do anything to separate yourself from anyone else, and then getting the time off for the conference wont be such a big deal.
davatsa is being very humble. I had the opportunity to spend some (limited) quality time with both him and Papa Ahvatsa. Without tipping his hand (a veritable straight flush of humility), davatsa has already exercised considerable due diligence and preparation necessary get him to this critical step in a very impressive career. Well done, sir.
