In an epic showdown of academic prowess, 19 students battled the clock – and each other – at the 10th annual 3-Minute Paper (3MP) competition. 

Since its inaugural year, the event has hosted 180 participants, including 15 students from Peterborough and four from Durham this year. 

“Our goal in developing 3MP was to shine a light on undergraduate research at Trent and to offer a stage where students could practice essential critical thinking and communication skills,” says Erin Stewart Eves, academic skills instructor. “Over the past 10 years, 3MP presenters have amazed me; they consistently deliver accessible, engaging and enlightening talks about their highly specialized and complex research.” 

Expansive and meaningful research

This year’s competition more than met expectations, with 57 minutes of presentations delivered to a packed Nozhem Theatre overflowing (literally) with family, friends, colleagues, and peers. 

The subject-matter of this year’s presentations illuminated the breadth of research being done at the undergraduate level at Trent; and like the students themselves, was progressive, innovative, and altruistic. 

“It was great to see a wide variety of presentations that connect to EDI and social justice,” noted first-time judge, Dr. Emily Moorhouse, coordinator of EDI Education and Support Initiatives at Trent.  

“It's a really nice way of doing that bridge work to connect community needs to research and vice versa.” 

Award-winning presentations

In addition to the unique experience and first-hand learning participants gain, six prizes were awarded including $250 for the Office of Research and Innovation Overall Prize; earned by fifth-year Biology student, Samantha Caudle (Gzowski College). Be sure to watch her full presentation, Extending Life in the Common Water Flea, a fascinating exploration of the aging process. 

“I made myself kind of proud. I know what I’m capable of now,” declared Samantha. “I never really thought I’d be interested in pursuing public speaking but now I think, you know, maybe this isn’t the last time I do a presentation like this.” 

Onwards and upwards

For those compelled, 3MP can be a stepping stone to the national graduate-level competition, 3-Minute Thesis. 

As a past 3MP and 3MT participant, mentor to this year’s cohort, and current faculty member in the Forensics program at Trent, Sumiko Polacco understands the journey and its challenges and rewards well. 

“If you are someone that finds public speaking is not your thing, [3MP] invites you to give it try in a short timeframe with an audience that is 1000% there to support you,” says Polacco. “In my opinion, participating is a ‘must do’ for any student conducting research. It is also such a great way to share your work with others, which is so important in bolstering research and fostering meaningful connections with the community.” 

Watch the 10th Annual 3-Minute Paper Competition on YouTube.