Wednesday, July 16, 2025
WORKSHOP: STORY OF YOUR CREATIVE ACTIVITY AND RESEARCH
9:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
In this workshop we’ll speedrun The Story Collider’s framework for crafting true personal stories. Whether they’re about your research projects, your academic adventures, or a pivotal moment from your past, Dr. Eric Jankowski believes that everyone has science stories worth sharing. He is a Professor, and the Director of the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering at Boise State, and has previously served as the Board President for The Story Collider, a national storytelling nonprofit and podcast reaching millions.
At the end of this workshop you’ll not only have a draft story you might share on a podcast someday, but the tools to mine your experiences for stories that connect community, convince others, and showcase the universal humanity behind the process of training scientists.
MEET A PROF
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Meet a Professor is an interactive session designed to give undergraduate students the opportunity to connect with faculty in a casual, conversation-based setting. Students will rotate or self-select tables and engage directly with professors from a variety of disciplines to learn about their research, hear personal stories about their academic and career journeys, and gain insight into topics such as applying to graduate school, mentoring styles, and collaborating with students.
Whether you’re curious about a specific field of study or just want to better understand the paths professors have taken, this session offers a valuable space to ask questions, explore possibilities, and build relationships with academic mentors. Learn a bit about these professors.
PANEL: GRADUATE COLLEGE AND INDUSTRY
3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Join us for an engaging and inspiring panel featuring graduate students who will share their firsthand experiences navigating graduate school. This is a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, learn practical tips directly from those who have been in your shoes, and understand what grad school looks like for different disciplines. Whether you’re considering graduate studies or already on your journey, hearing diverse perspectives can help you make informed decisions and feel more confident about your path. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and be inspired—your future self will thank you.
The panel will be facilitated by Sarah Ritter and Erika Stookey. A bio for each of our panelists will be included soon.
Thursday, July 17, 2025
LIGHTNING TALKS
9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
Lightning Talks are 3-minute, 1 slide presentations of a student’s research or creative activity. Modelled after the popular 3-Minute Thesis Talks, Lightning Talks provide an opportunity for students to showcase their research communication skills and the ability to effectively explain their research in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience.
This year’s Lightning Talks are being presented by ten students from across Idaho institutions. Check out their researcher profiles.