General GUS timeline
The Guilford Undergraduate Symposium (GUS) showcases creativity, achievement, research, service-learning, and community-based research
from all disciplines at Guilford College. Student presenters gain experience in research, writing, poster-making, and collaboration with
colleagues. They also gain practical experience with public speaking and presentation skills. None of this happens without perparation, though.
Many presenters find the timeline below to be a useful way to manage their time and their project. Please keep in mind that each area is meant
to be a guideline rather than an exact proscription. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to the GUS Steering Committee.
September to December
- Start to think about a topic to present. You can present work that's already completed, perhaps with a few tweaks to ensure
that your presentation will fir the time and/or space constraints. You can also present a topic that you're just beginning to
research. Remember that your project doesn't have to be complete before you present.
- Once you've decided on a topic, consult your mentor to narrow the scope (if necessary) and start writing your abstract. You may
want to consult the Learning and Writing Center for tips on
abstracts and the How Do I...? Guide for commonly asked questions about
research. As always, feel free to consult with a librarian if you run into any issues with sources.
- Consider the best presentation format for your project. See the Presenters page for more
information on formates and modes.
January and February
- Add any finishing touches to your project, including the title, abstract, and main body. Ensure that each section has been
thoroughly proofread.
- Make a final decision on your presentation format. You may need to make extra preparations, depending on your choice.
- Consult your mentor and get their final approval.
March
- The application deadline is approaching! It is typically in early March and you must submit your project on time for
full consideration.
- You should be refining your presentation at this point: make any final edits or decisions and practice, practice, practice!
It will be worth your time to spend 10-15 minutes either recording yourself or practicing in front of friends or family. Be sure
that the final iteration of your presentation is within the time constraints.
- Watch for the GUS schedule release. Once you've seen it, put your presentation session, time, and location into your calendar.
- Invite your mentor(s), friends, and family to the symposium.
April
- Present your project at GUS!
