After spending the semester researching, writing and re-writing assignments and undergraduate theses, third and fourth year Trent University students will be challenged to present their original research in just three minutes during the first annual Three Minute Paper (3MP) competition on Friday, March 13 at 2:00 p.m. in the Lady Eaton College Dining Hall.

“There is some really impressive research happening at the undergraduate level at the University, and 3MP is an opportunity to show it off to other departments and to the community,” said Ms. Erin Stewart-Eves, academic skills instructor at Trent University. “Students need to present their work in a clear, concise and engaging manner, a skill they will find useful in their professional careers.”

Trent’s first 3MP event has been developed in collaboration by the four undergraduate colleges at Trent, the Academic Skills Centre and the Office of Student Affairs. This program was sparked by the success of the Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition where Trent graduate students explain their highly specialized research to a general audience in a short three minutes.

The competition will be judged by members of the Trent community who will be evaluating students on their knowledge and understanding as well as communication and engagement. Judges include: Marilyn Burns, executive director, Marketing & Communications, Recruitment & Admissions; Dr. Melanie Buddle, Gzowski College academic advisor; Dr. Tina Fridgen, Champlain College academic advisor; and M.Sc. candidate Patrick Lafleur.

The first place winner will receive $100, to be presented by Trent’s founding president Professor Tom Symons. A $50 prize will be awarded to the top finalist from each College. Roy McGregor, Globe and Mail columnist and the 2014/15 Ashley Fellow, will provide opening remarks.