For the fourth year in a row, the Good Library hosted its annual Geek Off event. The competition celebrates students’ passions, offering a platform to showcase everything ranging from cosplay and fanfiction to board game designs and digital art.
The 2025 competition took place Feb.14 and brought students together through a shared enthusiasm for geek culture.
The idea stemmed from Kelsey McLane, promotions and accessibility librarian, who participated in a Geek Off contest when she worked as a teen librarian in Denver, Colorado.
“When I got to Goshen College, I knew we could, and should, do something similar. We wanted to see what incredible things college students could create -— and we have not been disappointed,” McLane said.
Geek Off allows students to proudly display their niche interests and talents. Ryan Snider took the first-place crown with his custom-made “Fallout” helmet. Second and third places went to music video submissions of Twenty-One Pilots songs, and a 4-by-4 foot painting of Bob-omb from “Super Mario 64”.
Other highlights included 2D and 3D art, “Ghostbusters” cosplay, poetry, fanfiction and a YouTube overview of all 85 boss battles in “Batman: Arkham Knight.”
The talent on display speaks to the dedication and passion of participants.
McLane said, “This idea would not have come to life if students hadn’t taken the time out of their very busy school schedules to spend the time and effort on some very elaborate entries.”
For weeks, participants devoted themselves to crafting entries that not only demonstrate talent but also a deep connection to their favorite interests.
A panel of judges, including student volunteers, evaluated entries based on creativity and “wow factor.” But the community around it is what makes this event worthwhile, as Geek Off is more than just a competition.
Historically, geeks have often been outsiders, but this event fosters a space where their creativity and talents are not only recognized but celebrated. The support from friends, professors and fellow students underscores the power of community throughout GC.
“Having those friends and professors at the awards ceremony to support our participants is huge. It takes a lot of work and guts to enter this contest, and I appreciate all the people that show up every year to encourage our campus geeks,” McLane continued.
Looking ahead, McLane hopes to expand the contest by securing additional gallery space for display and encouraging more participation. “I’d love to hear suggestions from students on how we can grow this event. This contest is all about you [students], after all,” she said.
As this year’s Geek Off wraps up, students are already brainstorming ideas for next year to push their creative limits even further.
For future Geek Off participants, Ryan Carrillo, second place winner, shared a piece of advice, “Create whatever the hell you want. Show off what inspires you, and do it in style.”
