Converts enjoy the blessing that الحج erases all previous sins; join a knowledgeable group, do not hesitate to ask questions, and know that دعاء can be made in any language.
New Muslims performing الحج have a particularly blessed opportunity — النبي (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said to Amr ibn al-As: 'Do you not know that Islam erases what came before it, and that Hijrah erases what came before it, and that الحج erases what came before it?' (Muslim). This means a convert performing الحج returns with a completely clean slate, all previous sins forgiven.
Practical advice for converts: join a reputable الحج group with an English-speaking (or your language) scholar who can guide you through rituals step by step. Do not feel embarrassed about asking questions — the companions themselves constantly asked النبي about الحج details. Learn the basic Arabic phrases for the rituals (التلبية, takbir, key الأدعية) but know that دعاء can be made in any language. If you do not have Muslim family, the الحج group becomes your spiritual family. Many converts report that الحج is where they truly feel the unity of the ummah, standing shoulder to shoulder with Muslims from every background. Your unique perspective as someone who chose Islam consciously is valuable and respected.
Source: صحيح مسلم, Kitab al-Iman; الإمام النووي, Sharh صحيح مسلم