Conference Presentations
We invite undergraduate students to submit research or creative work from a wide range of academic disciplines. Submissions should address a novel question, problem or artistic inquiry. Students may choose to present their work in one of the following formats: oral presentation, poster presentation, performance or art exhibit. Please indicate your preferred presentation format on the abstract submission form and adhere to the corresponding guidelines. All submissions will undergo a blind review process conducted by the Director of Undergraduate Research and select members of the Council on Undergraduate Research. Authors will be notified of acceptance by Friday, October 3, 2025. Accepted presenters must register and pay the conference fee by Friday, October 17, 2025.
Process and Deadlines
Abstract Guidelines for All Presentation Formats:
- State research question or project purpose.
- Clearly state the central question, theme or objective guiding the project.
- Provide a brief, relevant context demonstrating the project’s novel contribution or creative significance.
- Briefly describe the methodology or creative process used.
- Summarize the methods, process or approach used to conduct the research or create the work.
- If applicable, attach supplemental images or media that support or illustrate the work being submitted.
- State the findings or anticipated outcomes.
- Briefly indicate the implications or significance of the project’s outcomes or creative insights.
Abstract submission form must be completed by September 19, 2025.
If applicable, you will also submit supplemental materials (e.g., images of artwork, media recording) under 100MB.
Complete registration and submit any revisions by Friday. October 17, 2025.
Registration opens September 1, 2025.
Presentation Guidelines
Posters are typically created using a customized slide in PowerPoint (landscape orientation) or a custom design in Canva. Posters should be 48 inches (width) x 36 inches (height).
At the top of your poster, include the title of your project, author name(s) and institutional affiliation. Use a clear, professional font such as Times New Roman or Courier. The title should be between 80-120-point font, and author/affiliation information should be approximately 60-90-point font.
Organize the remaining content into clearly labeled sections, typically including an abstract, brief introduction, method, results (with any tables, figures, or images), discussion and references. Use a large, legible font — generally no smaller than 36-point — to ensure readability from approximately 5-6 feet away.
All images should be high resolution (at least 300 dpi) to avoid blurriness or distortion when printed.
Poster stands and push pins will be provided.
Please note: Poster printing services will not be provided. Presenters are responsible for printing and transporting their own posters.
Prepare a 12-minute slide presentation allowing for 3 minutes of audience Q&A using a platform of your choice (e.g., PowerPoint, Canva, Google Slides, etc.).
Keep slides concise — avoid large blocks of text and use keywords or brief phrases. Use a font size no smaller than 20-point to ensure readability.
Clearly explain any visual elements, including tables, figures, images or diagrams, so the audience can easily follow your data and findings.
Rehearse your presentation to ensure it fits within the 12-minute time limit. A session moderator will help you manage your time by displaying timecards indicating 5 minutes, 2 minutes, 1 minute and 0 minutes remaining.
The major portion the performance does not exceed 12 minutes, followed by 3 minutes for audience Q&A.
Ensure your piece is well-rehearsed and that all performers are aware of the time constraints.
If your performance requires technical support (e.g., audio, lighting or staging), communicate these needs in advance on the application form.
A session moderator will help you manage time by displaying timecards indicating 5 minutes, 2 minutes, 1 minute and 0 minutes remaining. Be prepared to conclude promptly when time expires.
Musicians are responsible for providing and transporting their own personal instruments for their performance.
Please note: Berry College is not responsible for any loss or damage to instruments.
Prepare your artwork for display with attention to professional presentation.
Be prepared to briefly introduce your piece and engage with viewers during the exhibit session.
Artists are responsible for transporting their work to and from the venue. All costs associated with transportation and insurance are the responsibility of the presenter. If your piece is fragile or of significant value, consider insuring it during transport and display.
Tables will be provided.
Please note: Berry College is not responsible for any loss or damage to exhibited work.