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Meeting of the Minds

The 14th Annual 'Meeting of the Minds' Student Research Symposium 

Celebrating the achievements of our students, “Meeting of the Minds” is a one-day event recognizing the outstanding scholarly and creative accomplishments of CSUSB graduate and undergraduate students. Join in on an opportunity to view their research and creative activities to the entire CSUSB campus and the broader community. 

What is the “Meeting of the Minds”

The "Meeting of the Minds" Student Research Symposium is a campus-wide annual event where CSUSB graduate and undergraduate students have the opportunity to showcase their research and creative activities (RSCA) through oral and poster presentations. This event is an excellent opportunity for students to refine their presentation skills while sharing their talents and knowledge with others. Participants with the best oral and poster presentations will receive an award and be recognized during the reception and award ceremony.

Meeting of the Minds in CSUSB News


Why Participate?

  • Showcase Your Research: Present your findings in a professional setting, whether through a poster or an oral presentation.
  • Build Your Academic Network: Connect with faculty, peers, and industry professionals who share your research interests.
  • Enhance Your Resume: Gain experience that can set you apart in graduate school applications or job searches.
  • Receive Constructive Feedback: Improve your research through constructive critiques from faculty judges and peers.

Event Details 

Date: April 10th, 2025

Location: Santos Manuel Student Union, Center for Global Innovation, and College of Education

Presentation Types: Poster, Oral, and Art Exhibit Presentations

Applications are now open! We encourage students from all academic disciplines to apply. Whether your research is complete or still in progress, we want to see your work.

Deadline to Apply: March 3rd, 2025


Eligibility


Undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled at CSUSB, as well as alumni/alumnae who received their degrees in Spring, Summer, or Fall 2024, are eligible to apply. Presentations from all disciplines are invited, including:

  • College of Arts and Letters
  • Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration
  • College of Education
  • College of Natural Sciences
  • College of Social & Behavioral Sciences

How to Apply


Students who wish to participate in the symposium must submit the following:

  1. Prepare Your Abstract: Write a brief abstract summarizing your research project. This should be concise, informative, and clearly state your research question, methods, and findings. (minimum 200 words, maximum 250 words). Be sure to include the title of your research project and, if applicable, information about your group member(s).

  2. Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form [apply here] and upload your abstract. Make sure to choose whether you wish to present a poster or an oral presentation.

  3. Review and Confirmation: After submission, you will receive a confirmation email. All applications are accepted! 

Note: To be eligible, students need the support of a faculty advisor who will assist with questions about their research/creative activity.

Submit Application

Click to Register for Conference


Presentation Formats

Oral Presentation:
Students will present their work in person to a panel of faculty judges. Presentations must be 10 minutes long, followed by a 5-minute Q&A. Students will be grouped into sessions based on categories and class standing. One presentation per session will be selected for the "Best Oral Presentation" award.

Poster Presentation:
Poster presenters will present their posters in person on April 11th, during one of two sessions (Session 1: 10:30 - 11:15 am; Session 2: 1:30 - 2:15 pm). All posters must be printed with dimensions of 48x36 inches. Poster printing costs will be covered by the OSR through CSUSB's Printing Services department. Each student/team is allowed one poster. Students interested in participating in the competition must indicate this on their application. Only those students will be considered for the "Best Poster Presentation" awards. Jurors will visit each poster and discuss the research during the poster session. Students may also be asked to upload their presentation to the virtual platform Symposium.

Art Exhibit:
Students interested in exhibiting their art will do so during the poster presentation sessions. Each exhibit will be provided with a table and/or space for display.


Awards

Based on juror recommendations, the most outstanding oral and poster presenters from each session will be recognized during the Recognition of Student Researchers Luncheon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  • Who can apply?
    • Any currently enrolled student conducting research at [Your Institution].
  • Can I present ongoing research?
    • Yes! We welcome research at any stage of development.
  • What is the difference between a poster and an oral presentation?
    • A poster presentation allows you to visually display your research on a poster board and discuss it informally with attendees. An oral presentation involves delivering a formal talk about your research to an audience, typically followed by a Q&A session.
  •  Who can attend the event?
    • The event is open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members interested in learning about the research conducted by students at CSUSB.
  •  Can I participate in both a poster and an oral presentation?
    • Yes, students are welcome to participate in both a poster and an oral presentation.

Contact Us: If you have any questions about the application process or the event, please reach out to us at osr@csusb.edu


Event Schedule

  • 9:00AM - 3:30PM - Registration SMSU North (For presenters & jurors ONLY) 
  • 10:30AM - 10:45AM - Welcome and Special Remarks
  • 10:45AM - 11:45AM - Poster Presentation Session I
  • 12:00PM - 1:00PM - Lunch and Keynote Speaker
  • 1:30PM - 2:30PM - Poster Presentation Session II
  • 2:00PM - 3:30PM - Oral Presentation Session I
  • 4:00PM - 5:30PM - Oral Presentation Session II

Call for Applications

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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