Conner LaRose is a first-year student at State Fair Community College (SFCC), and studies Industrial Electrical Maintenance. He has big goals to one day become a robotics technician, with plans to use his skills in a food packaging plant or concrete factory. He says he is proud to be a Roadrunner and appreciates the welcoming campus culture.

“I haven’t met someone here who isn’t friendly,” said LaRose.

At SFCC, LaRose is a vital member of the Call of Duty esports team. While team roles rotate depending on match strategy, LaRose naturally gravitates toward the anchor position, which holds map control and shuts down enemy flanks.

He began gaming competitively during his senior year of high school, when he joined the Mario Kart team. It sparked a new passion that followed him into college.

“My biggest accomplishment so far would be being on a team with my closest friends,” said LaRose.

To improve his skills, he focuses on ranked gameplay, sharpening his shooting accuracy and movement. The dedication doesn’t stop with esports.

“In my mind, practice makes perfect,” said LaRose. “Anything I struggle with, I keep working at to improve.”

He carries this same mindset into his everyday life, focusing on persistence and staying calm, both in and out of the game.

“Being calm will always get you further than getting frustrated,” he added.

For LaRose, it has been eye-opening to experience video games in a structured, competitive setting. Being part of a collegiate team has given him a new perspective on gaming, and he appreciates the community and camaraderie it builds.

“I think the NJCAAE is a great organization. It brings people together who share the same interests,” said LaRose.

One of his favorite moments came during the team’s first prequalifying match victory, an early win that helped build team momentum and confidence.

“People think video games are bad for you,” he said. “But they actually improve reaction time and mental function.”

In the future, LaRose hopes to be working in the robotics field and continuing to improve, just like he does in-game.

His advice to younger gamers: “You’re meant to enjoy video games. Be calm, and have fun with it.”