Three-Minute Thesis Challenge

• A single static PowerPoint slide is permitted. No slide transitions, animations, or movements of any kind are allowed. The slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration.
• No additional electronic media (e.g., sound or video files) are permitted.
• No additional props (e.g., books, costumes, or musical instruments) are permitted.
• Presentations are limited to three minutes. Competitors whose presentations exceed three minutes will be disqualified.
• Presentations are to be spoken (no singing is allowed).
• A presentation is considered to have begun with the presenter’s first word or movement.
• The decision of the judging panel is final.

Comprehensiveness and content

• Did the presenter clearly describe the background and significance of the research question being addressed while explaining terminology and avoiding jargon?
• Did the presentation clearly describe the impact and/or results of the research, including conclusions and outcomes?
• Did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
• Were the thesis topic, research significance, results and impact, and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a nonspecialist audience?
• Did the presenter spend enough time on each element of their presentation? Did they spend too much time on one aspect of the subject? Was the presentation rushed?

Engagement and communication

• Did the presentation make the audience want to know more?
• Was the presenter careful not to trivialize or generalize from their research?
• Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their research?
• Did the presenter capture and maintain the audience's attention?
• Did the speaker have stage presence and a confident stance, maintain a steady pace and eye contact, and employ their vocal range effectively?
• Did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation? Was it clear, legible, and concise?

Not at all! The challenge is entirely separate from your degree program. You will not receive a grade, and it will not affect your academic standing.

Yes, but the use of note cards may detract from the presentation and is not recommended.

One static PowerPoint slide is permitted; no slide transitions, animations, sounds, or movements are allowed. In preparing the slide, remember that “less is more.” The slide does not have to include text. Visual cues can be very effective in assisting with a presenter's explanation of his or her research

Although there are no dress requirements, during the competition, finalists wear microphones that must clip to a shirt or blazer collar.

First Place and Audience Choice
Aysegul Kayagil, "From 'Arabs' to 'Afro-Turks': Race in the Making of Hegemonic Turkishness"

Second Place
Alissa Boguslaw, "Almost Sovereign: Independence and Indeterminacy in the New Republic of Kosovo"

Third Place
Feng Chen, "Visualizing Invisibility: Chinese Visual Artists in New York City"

Please send any questions to [email protected].