JagCon, a firsthand experience

Cam Mashak | Features editor 

This year’s JagCon concluded on a high note. This years growth was clearly evidenced by the extensive queues for check-in on the opening day, as eager attendees lined up early in anticipation of the weekend’s festivities. The convention grounds quickly filled with students, alumni, and fans, all drawn by the promise of an immersive and multifaceted experience.

The event featured a wide range of attractions and programming that catered to a diverse set of interests and fandoms. One of the central highlights was the vendor hall, which served as a marketplace and a hub of creative energy. The space provided a platform for both student entrepreneurs and more established businesses to showcase their unique products, handmade crafts, and original art. 

The convention’s programming schedule was rich and varied, featuring numerous panels, workshops, and interactive sessions throughout the afternoon. Highlights included panels designed for specific communities, such as Blerds (Black Nerds), as well as practical workshops introducing newcomers to the world of cosplay crafting, costume construction, and character design. 

There were also activities aimed at engaging the gaming community, including a well-attended tournament that drew a competitive crowd. Attendees could also participate in creative sessions, like miniature painting, where they could explore their artistic side in a casual and supportive environment.

I had the opportunity to contribute to this vibrant and inclusive atmosphere in multiple ways as both a vendor and a cosplayer. As a vendor, I managed a booth dedicated to my original line of hand-knitted products, which included handmade jester hats, scarves and baby beanies. I also had a bunch of stickers both bought and handmade that many were able to find what they like. 

My booth attracted a considerable amount of interest from attendees, many of whom stopped by to browse, ask questions about the crafting process, and show their support. Engaging with such a responsive and appreciative audience made the experience all the more fulfilling.

JagCon culminated with the much-anticipated cosplay competition, which was held in the Maxwell Theatre and drew an impressive crowd. Fans from a wide range of fandoms gathered to cheer on their favorite contestants and admire the craftsmanship on display. The competition crowned its winners in the three categories in a spirited closing ceremony. 

The winners were Lucien Ullman, a Computer Science major; Laura Anne Ogden, a History major with a secondary teaching certificate; and myself, a Digital and Visual Storytelling major. Each winner was recognized for excellence in a specific category and awarded a scholarship as part of their prize.

Ullman earned the title of Best Closet Cosplay and received a $100 scholarship. I was honored to win the award for Best Craftsmanship, which also came with a $100 scholarship in recognition of the time and effort I had invested in my costume. Finally, Laura Anne Ogden was named Best in Show, earning a $300 scholarship for her outstanding performance and presentation. 

The entire experience of JagCon was exceptionally positive, offering not only a fun and interactive atmosphere but also meaningful opportunities for personal growth and community engagement for students. As both a vendor and a cosplayer, I found the event to be deeply rewarding, allowing me to connect with others, showcase my creative work, and become more actively involved in the campus’s cultural life. This sentiment was echoed by many fellow students who attended, some also had comments to say about the event. 

Ullman said “JagCon was a wonderful experience. It was fun to meet fellow nerds, see amazing cosplays, and see a whole new side of my campus. I'm grateful that AU cares enough about their nerd population to create something like this! I'm looking forward to the following years.”

Another student, Aubrey Carroll concluded by saying, “Jagcon was a ton of fun. I enjoy getting together with other nerds right here at AU, and it doesn’t cost anything for me to go or participate.”

The overall consensus was that JagCon succeeded in creating an accessible and enriching space where students from all walks of life could come together, celebrate their passions, and build lasting connections. With its expanded offerings and enthusiastic turnout, this year’s JagCon stands as another successful installment of what has become a cornerstone event in the student community.