Posted by Grant Kruger (205.144.235.204) on June 24, 2003 at 13:05:59:
In Reply to: Re: First World Con posted by lyta jr on June 12, 2003 at 00:18:15:
Your first Worldcon! Fantastic. There is nothing quite like it and you will have a ball. I would recommend you browsing through as much of the Torcon III website as possible, getting an idea of all that goes on and the tremendous collection of programming items that your membership gets you. There will be talks, movies, costuming, gaming and much more, and so much of each. If you are interested in Science Fiction, fantasy, physics, NASA, Mars missions, media, writer’s teaching and a horde of other areas, you will find your fill here and more. And the panels will be filled with authors, artists, publishers, scientists, academics and more (Worldcons usually have hundreds of panelists). Worldcons also have more and bigger convention parties than other cons, that can make for hugely fun social evenings. There will also be Kaffee Klatches where you can hang out with your favorite author. Aspiring writers can join writers workshops where their work can be critiqued by published authors. You can vote on the Hugos! There is usually a huge dealers’ room filled with great stuff. There is a massive art show, a huge masquerade, an internet lounge, late night panels, and...well, I could go on and on. It is unbelievable! The best five days of the year!
Once you are there watch out for programming items geared towards folks like you. Every Worldcon I have been to (only 4 so far) has had programming items that will help you to get the most out of your Worldcon experience. Also, the SF&F crowd is a friendly (if sometimes shy) one, so don’t be afraid to ask questions of the people around you.
Also, arrive at the Worldcon fully refreshed and not short of sleep, because for five days you might be tempted to forgo most sleep, because you will be in a fannish heaven, the SF&F reader’s Disneyland. Just be sure to get some sleep, eat at least one good meal a day and don’t skip those baths/showers ;)
Grant