Modeled after the Linguistic Society of America's "5-Minute Linguist" event, the Linguistics Society at GMU will be hosting the first annual "Roughly 3-Minute Linguist". The LSA describes "5-Minute Linguist" as a "high-profile event which features eight LSA members giving lively and engaging presentations about their research in a manner accessible to the general public. No notes, no podium, and an actual timer."

In the same manner, "Roughly 3-Minute Linguist" will feature 8-10 Linguistics students of all academic levels and subdisciplines who will give give short presentations (~3 minutes, give or take 15 seconds), attempting to distill their research into a format understandable to the average layperson. Unlike the "5-Minute Linguist", notes WILL be allowed and we'll be a little loose with the timer.

The purpose of this event is to encourage GMU students to practice presenting their research to a wide-ranging audience and to showcase current research to the public.

FAQ

How can I enter?

If you are a GMU student, you can enter the contest by sending an email to thelinguisticssocietygmu@gmail.com or to our president at bhunt6@gmu.edu. Unfortunately, the contest is not open to non-GMU students or others at this time.

How will the event unfold?

The day before the event, an email will be sent to participants listing the order in which they will present. The event itself will begin with an introduction and outline of the proceedings as well as the introduction of the panel of judges. The presenters will each receive ~3 minutes for their presentation; notes and visual aides will be allowed as long as they are set up before the event begins. The talks will be judged by a panel of GMU students and one professor and the winner will be chosen by a combined vote of the panel and the audience.

Will there be prizes?

Yes! A small prize will be given to each participant as a thanks for sharing their work, and first and second place will receive larger prizes. Second place will receive a copy of "The 5-Minute Linguist: Bite-sized Essays on Language and Languages" and first place will receive a copy of the book as well as $25!

Will there be food?

Yes! The Linguistics Society will provide pizza and drinks for all participants and audience members.

Who can attend?

All are welcome. While the contest itself is only open to GMU students at this time, anyone can attend, regardless of your student status or experience in the field of Linguistics. In fact, we encourage those who are interested in language or linguistics to join us and learn about what we do as linguists and what kind of research is conducted at GMU.

We hope to see you there!