Last year was my first ever Kcon, and first convention over all.
2014: Panels exist for a reason! You cannot use your real hair for a cosplay, don't do it. One day for $25 is way too much (this year I registered in March and snagged a full weekend pass for $35). Don't be shy, you little dweeb. COSPLAY IS AMAZING AND DIFFICULT, AND YOU NEED TO RESPECT ALL COSPLAYERS! $25 is not sufficient merch funds, you only got a DTK plushie and a print (because the super nice artist gave you $2 off, but don't expect discounts from everyone), people love it when you compliment them (and they'll probably compliment you back!), PEOPLE ARE FRIENDLY DO NOT BE AFRAID, your non-nerdy friends do not really want to hear about how much fun you had.
Yeah, I learned a lot in one day