Grad Ben Talks 2020
Grad Ben Talks is an afternoon of TED Talk-style presentations by Penn Arts & Sciences graduate students representing the Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Professional Master’s programs.
Applications are now closed for 2020. Spend an afternoon with big ideas on Friday, February 21. Click HERE for more information.
Who is eligible to enter?
Currently students enrolled in a doctoral or master's program through the School of Arts & Sciences Graduate Division, or in a master's program in the School of Arts & Sciences College of Liberal & Professional Studies.
What is it?
A day of TED Talk-style presentations by Penn Arts & Sciences graduate students representing the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and professional master’s programs. Each student will present an 8-minute talk to an audience of undergraduates, faculty, staff, and fellow graduate students. Judges will select winners in each category for a $500 cash prize. There will also be a $500 prize for the overall Audience Choice Winner selected by online votes. All will be invited to a closing reception where winners will be announced.
NEW IN 2020!
Students working together on a project will be able to present their research in a special group category. Please note that the 8-minute standard time limit will also be in effect for groups, and the $500 cash prize will be split among the full team. Please be sure to fill out the special GROUP APPLICATION in order to considered a team presentation.
Why would I do this?
This is a great opportunity to see if you can describe your work so that your grandmother would understand you. You will get a professional recording of your talk and feedback from our panel of judges made up of a Penn faculty member, communications staffer, and a fellow grad student from another discipline. Did we mention there will also be delicious food and cash prizes?
When does it take place?
Friday, February 21, 2020
Competition:
12 - 5 p.m.
Reception:
5 - 6:30 p.m.
Where does it take place?
Irvine Auditorium, Amado Recital Hall
3401 Spruce Street
How do I enter?
Interested students and groups should submit abstracts (no more than 200 words) describing their proposed topic no later than close of business on Sunday, January 26, 2020 at 11:59 EST using the entry links above.
Up to five talks will be selected in each category to be delivered at the live event. Finalists will be notified on Wednesday, February 5.
See 2019 Grad Ben Talks videos HERE.
