Info for Presenters
We are excited for you to participate in the 2025 Grad Slam Showcase!
This event is all about bringing your amazing research to life for a broad audience, and we are here to help and support every step of the way.
STEP 1. Sign Up to Participate
Find Your Preliminary Round
- Check the Preliminary Schedule
- Locate your home department in the schedule (this determines your presentation group)
Sign Up (Priority Deadline: January 31, 2025)
- Complete the Presenter Sign-Up Form
- Have your presentation title ready
- Indicate your availability for Final Round events
- Submit your form by January 31 for priority consideration
All preliminary presenters will receive:
- A chance at winning prize money for their disciplinary grouping
- $1,000 for 8 disciplinary round winners (advance to Final)
- $250 for 8 disciplinary round runners-up (advance to 2nd Chance Round)
- $750 for the 2nd Chance winner (advance to Final)
- $25 gift card for all other presenters
- Grad Slam swag
STEP 2. Review the Presentation Guidelines
On the Presentation Guidelines page, you'll find all the information you need to know about the updated UC-wide Grad Slam requirements for visuals, timing, and how your talk will be evaluated by our judging panels.
Additionally, participants will now be required to use Google Slides for their presentations if they decide to include visuals. We'll even provide you with a handy (but optional) slideshow template that you may use as a reference.
STEP 3. Review Presentation Resources and Attend Training Workshops
We offer a variety of professional development resources to help you prepare and excel in the competition, including self-paced online materials and interactive, hands-on training workshops.
Many of our Finalists from past years note the importance of taking advantage of these resources, so be sure to check them out!
STEP 4. Final Preparations
As we get closer to the Preliminary Rounds, take note of the following important information (this will also be emailed to you after you sign up):
- Make sure your presentation slot has been confirmed by Graduate Division staff and you have marked your calendar.
- If you are using a slide for your presentation, you must send them to Michael Roysner no later than one week before your preliminary round. We recommend creating your slides using Google Slides, and we even have a branded template you can use.
- Sign up for one of our practice sessions to get feedback on your talk from Graduate Division staff and other grad students.
- Invite your friends and colleagues to come cheer you on!
- Show up for your assigned round at least 30 minutes before the start time.
STEP 5. Present!
The moment has come for you to shine! We can't wait to learn about your cool research.
After the round, you'll also receive feedback from the judges. Their written comments as well as numerical scores will be compiled and shared anonymously with you via email within one week after your round.
STEP 6. Connect with Fellow Grad Slammers
All preliminary round presenters are invited to join us for an informal social event TBD. You'll be able to chat with your peers and debrief from the showcase. More info will be sent to presenters in late February!