Submit Your Panel Ideas for GeekGirlCon ’18!
Everyone! GeekGirlCon ’18 season is officially upon us!
On our part, we’re getting things organized and settled behind the scenes. But what we need from you all, what we need each year to make GeekGirlCon the most memorable and magical weekend we possibly can, is programming submissions. Specifically, we need the excellent panel ideas that we’ve come to expect from our GeekGirlCon family.
This year, your deadline to submit applications for all kinds of programming is April 30. You have some time, so use it to refine your applications and track down potential panelists. While you’re working, here are some FAQs about panel applications with answers from our very own Panel Program staffers.
[Image Description: Three panelists from a past GeekGirlCon sit laughing with each other.] Adaptation, Appropriation, Influence: Using Other Cultures to Build Fictional Worlds, GeekGirlCon ’16. Photo by Danny Ngan.
What makes a stand-out panel application? What level of detail is preferred?
First of all, applications need to have every field completed. Additionally, the best have thorough “Panel Descriptions” that clearly articulate not only what the panel’s content would be, but also how that content clearly aligns to GeekGirlCon’s mission. It is encouraged that you have at least a couple prospective panelists identified in the application. This shows the panel selection committee that you have a real plan for making the panel actually happen were it to be selected. Ultimately, the more detail you include in the application, the better!
What qualifies someone to be a panelist?
The key to being a good panelist is not as clear-cut as you may expect. It’s important that in your application, you first demonstrate that you have some sort of expertise on the subject matter you plan to discuss. This is not nearly as intimidating as it sounds! Expertise can be education-based, experience-based, etc. And, what’s equally as important as expertise is enthusiasm. When vetting panelists, the Panel Selection Committee will consider your expertise and enthusiasm collectively, also reviewing your online presence in the process to determine if you would be a good fit for GeekGirlCon.
What sort of subject matter is best suited to GeekGirlCon’s mission?
At GeekGirlCon, we celebrate the legacy of women and other underrepresented groups in science, comics, gaming, and the arts. Panels that explore these sorts of contributions align perfectly with our mission. Additionally, panels that discuss diversity and inclusion are immensely valuable to our community.
What have you not seen in the past that you’d like to see?
We’re always looking for more panels about anime and non-Western fandoms! We’re also looking for more panels that center the voices of women of color, people with disabilities, and others who have been traditionally excluded from popular media.
How do I know if my idea is geeky enough?
GeekGirlCon has received panel submissions for a range of subjects that aren’t traditionally “geeky,” from the history of Judaism in horror movies to geeks and fitness. If your subject’s topical, we want to hear about it! What matters most is that you have a plan to present your ideas in an exciting and engaging manner—that you’re excited to share them with GeekGirlCon’s community!
That’s all for now, but if you have more questions about what makes GeekGirlCon panels so amazing, don’t hesitate to leave comments or send us an email. We can’t wait to see what you come up with!
[Image Description: Kristen Wiig dressed as SNL character smiling and leaning forwards. Subtitle at the bottom reads, “I’m so freakin’ excited!”] Source: Giphy.
