GSAS Dissertation Slam
Three minutes. One stage. Big ideas.
The inaugural GSAS Dissertation Slam is Monday, March 30, 5:00–7:00 pm, in Nous Café (Philosophy Hall, Room 301). Reserve your ticket today!
Eleven advanced doctoral students from across Arts and Sciences will step into a dynamic, three-minute communication challenge and share their dissertation research with a broad audience. This is more than a competition: it is a focused professional development experience. Participants receive coaching and presentation training before taking the stage—refining how they articulate the stakes of their work, engage listeners beyond their field, and connect across disciplines.
Why Take the Stage?
Your research deserves to be heard.
Whether you are presenting at conferences, interviewing for jobs, applying for grants, or speaking to public audiences, the ability to communicate your work clearly and compellingly is essential. The Dissertation Slam offers a rigorous, supportive space to strengthen your public voice while celebrating the intellectual vitality of our doctoral community.
Plus…Three presenters will be awarded $500 prizes!
Key Dates
- Prep Sessions (Additional sessions will be added as necessary)
Friday, March 6 | 2:00–3:00 pm | Hamilton Hall, Room 602 & Online
Wednesday, March 11 | 4:00–5:00 pm | Philosophy 302 & Online - Registration Deadline
Friday, March 13 (extended!) - Practice Studio Sessions
March 16–27 - GSAS Dissertation Slam
Monday, March 30 | 5:00–7:00 pm | Nous Café (Philosophy Hall, Room 301), RSVP
The Format
You have three minutes to present your dissertation research in the format that best suits your work and style:
- Traditional talk
- Multimedia presentation
- Performance
- Spoken word
- Or another creative approach
Audio/visual media, equipment, and props may be used in accordance with safety protocols. The only requirements:
- Stay within three minutes.
- Focus on your dissertation research.
How Presentations Are Judged
The goal of the Slam is to present clear, compelling information to a general audience. Presentations will be evaluated on:
- Clarity of Content: Is the research question clear? Are key concepts accessible and free of jargon?
- Delivery and Audience Engagement: Does the presenter use voice, body language, and visuals effectively?
- Impact: Are the stakes of the research—within the field and beyond—communicated persuasively?
- Doctoral students in years 3–7 of an Arts and Sciences doctoral program
- In good academic and administrative standing
- Attendance required at:
- One preparatory workshop (in person or online)
- At least one Practice Studio session
My research isn’t inherently interesting to a broad audience. Is this for me?
Absolutely. The Slam welcomes all disciplines, fields, subfields, and topics. Coaching and structured practice sessions will help you develop an engaging way to share your work.
My topic doesn’t have obvious real-world relevance. Will that hurt my chances?
No. Clarity, delivery, and impact are weighted equally. You will receive guidance on articulating the broader stakes of your research, and disciplinary representation will be considered in determining final awards.
Do I need to be an experienced public speaker?
Not at all. Whether you are a first-time presenter or a seasoned speaker, this is a rigorous and supportive environment designed to help you grow in confidence and skill.