Oral Presentaion Guidelines

Abstract submission

Abstract Submission for Entry: To be eligible as a presenter, an abstract must be submitted. Entries must be an original creation of the student. Abstracts must be 300 Words or Less. All abstracts must be submitted electronically no later than deadline. The deadline for STEM Day 2026 abstracts is Monday, March 9, 2026 at 11:59pm. 

ORAL PRESENTATION FORMAT

This competition provides an opportunity for graduate students to gain experience and exposure before a scholarly audience while highlighting their research. 

Competencies:

Presentations will be judged according to the listed criteria. 

1. Content and Knowledge (30 points)
   • • Clear explanation of the topic and objectives: _______/10
     • Demonstrates depth of knowledge and understanding: _______/10
     • Accurate and relevant information with proper use of terminology: _______/10
2. Presentation Quality (25 points)
   • • Clear organization and logical flow of ideas: _______/10
     • Effective use of visuals (poster design or PPT slides): _______/10
     • Appropriate formatting, readability, and visual appeal: _______/5
3. Communication and Delivery (20 points)
   • • Clarity of speech and articulation: _______/10
     • Engages the audience and maintains eye contact: _______/5
     • Confidence and professionalism: _______/5
4. Creativity and Innovation (15 points)
   • • Originality and uniqueness of the project: _______/10
     • Creative problem-solving or innovative approach: _______/5
5. Impact and Significance (10 points)
   • • Demonstrates relevance and potential impact of the project: _______/5
     • Overall effectiveness and persuasiveness of the presentation: _______/5

Requirements for Entry: Submissions must be from a graduate student. 

Length of the Presentation: Each presentation is limited to 5 minutes, including a minute of questions and answers from the audience.

Format: Graduate oral presentations should include a slide deck to support and structure the talk. Slides should be visually clear and concise, using key points, figures, or diagrams rather than dense text. Presentations should include at least a title slide and key results or main points. All figures and images should be readable and properly labeled, and any sources should be cited as needed.

Note: The STEM Day Oral Presentation Committee reserves the right to reject a submission.