Grad Slam
Sharing and celebrating graduate student research and creative work in accessible 3-minute talks
Grad Slam is a campus-wide competition for the best 3-minute graduate student presentation of a research, creative, or community engagement project. It's an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their communication skills. It is also an effective way to showcase the innovative research and creative work associated with graduate education at the University of Arizona.
Why Participate
Learn about the benefits of presenting in Grad Slam, including the grand prizes.
Format, Rules, and Judging Criteria
Learn about the competition’s structure and expectations of presenters.
Prepare to Excel
Join an information session, participate in a workshop, and check out online videos and other resources to help you present effectively.
Grad Slam Judges
Learn more about what judges do, how they are selected, and how to become a judge.
Grad Slam Videos
View past Grad Slam finalist videos as well as other videos associated with the event, like the Grad Slam:
Research as Story short video.
Key Dates
October 15, 2024 - Registration Opens
Workshops and Practice Sessions - November 1 through December 13
- November 1, 2024 - Workshop 1: Tailoring Your Presentation to a Non-specialist Audience, Graduate Center and Zoom
- November 8, 2024 - Workshop 2: Crafting a Memorable Message, Graduate Center and Zoom
- November 15, 2024 - Workshop 3: Visual Design Considerations, UPDATE: Zoom; no in-person due to Nov. 15 football festivities on campus.
- November 22, 2024 - Workshop 4: Confidence and Effective Body Language and Vocal Variety, Graduate Center and Zoom
- December 6, 2024 - Presentation Practice Session, Graduate Center and Zoom
- December 13, 2024 - Presentation Practice Session, Graduate Center and Zoom
January 16, 2025, 5 PM - Registration Closes
January 16 and 17, 2025 - Preliminary Round Dress Rehearsals (Optional, but encouraged)
- January 16, 3:30 PM to 6 PM, ENR2 N595
- January 17, 9 AM to 12 PM, ENR2 N595
January 22, 2025 - Preliminary Rounds, ENR2, Room N595, All Day
January 27, 2025 - Semifinals Dress Rehearsal (Optional, but encouraged), 3 PM to 6 PM
January 29, 2025 - Semifinal Rounds, ENR2, Room S107, 9 AM to 11 AM
February 4, 2025 - Finals Dress Rehearsal
February 5, 2025 - Final Round, Holsclaw Hall in the UA School of Music and livestreamed, Doors open at 4 PM, Event Start at 4:30 PM
March 2025 - Western Association of Graduate Schools 3-Minute Thesis (3MT), Denver, Colorado, Grad Slam Winner or Finalist will represent U of A.
Upcoming Events
There are no upcoming events listed.
Sponsors
We thank our sponsors for their in-kind and financial support.
UArizona Research, Innovation and Impact - In-person competition Grand Prizes
Want to sponsor Grad Slam (an award area or the event itself) or have additional questions? Contact David Bradshaw at bradshad@arizona.edu for more information.
Hosts
Grad Slam is hosted by the Graduate Center, the home of the Graduate College's student success initiatives and services.