Hetalia cosplayer with a strong interest in historical Hetalia and historically-based cosplays. I write Hetalia fan fiction, also. I am ridiculously old for this fandom, but don't care because it is fun and I've met some awesome Hetalians. I began cosplaying in 2012 and I love that it allows my inner frustrated actor out. It's also gotten me to be creative again, specifically getting back into sewing. I like learning new techniques for prop-making, as well as getting my sewing skills back to where I want them. I love meeting creative people who can plan a cosplay, figure out how to solve problems, and execute them.
In real life, I am a college professor who teaches Freshman Composition, creative writing, and British literature. Many of my students are very nice people, often with challenging lives, but not very creative or interesting.They are reluctant to think outside the box, need detailed instructions, and are terrified of taking risks and making mistakes. Attending cons has allowed me to meet people their age (and younger) who are quirky and creative. Seeing the way these young people design and create their cosplays, run businesses, and manage panels actually gives me hope for the future. Anyone who grumbles to their kids that cons are a waste of time and money is wrong, in my opinion. It's a fun hobby that encourages young people to be creative problem solvers and future business people. It's also a hobby open to people of all ages, races, sexual identities and orientations. Cosplay is for everyone!