Submitting your work to an academic conference is a fantastic way for graduate students to get feedback on their research, network with other academics, and build their CVs. It can seem a little intimidating at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process much more approachable.

Finding the Right Conference

First things first, you'll need to find a conference that's a good fit for your research. Here's what to consider:

• Your Advisor is Your Best Resource: Your graduate supervisor is a great starting point. They'll have connections and recommendations for conferences that are well-regarded in your field.

• Mailing Lists and Professional Organizations: Sign up for email lists from universities and academic organizations in your area of study. These are often the first to announce calls for papers.

• Scope and Theme: Make sure your research aligns with the conference's theme and scope. Check out the topics and abstracts from previous years to get a good sense of what they typically accept.

Preparing Your Submission

Once you've found a conference you'd like to submit to, it's time to get your materials in order.

• The Abstract is Key: Your abstract is your first impression. It's a short summary (usually 200-300 words) of your research. A good abstract will clearly state:

  • Your research question or the problem you're addressing.

  • Your methodology.

  • Your key findings.

  • The significance of your work.

• Follow the Guidelines to the Letter: Conferences have very specific formatting requirements for papers and abstracts. Pay close attention to word counts, font sizes, and any other formatting rules. Failure to do so can result in an automatic rejection.

• Types of Submissions: Conferences often have different submission types, including:

  • Full Papers: A complete research paper.

  • Posters/Works in Progress: For research that is still in its early stages.

  • Presentations without Publication: An option to present your work without having it included in the official conference proceedings.

  • Colloquia for PhD/Masters Students: Sessions specifically for graduate students to present their work.

Why Present at a Conference?

Presenting at a conference offers a wealth of benefits for graduate students:

• Get Valuable Feedback: You'll receive constructive criticism on your research from experts in your field. This can be incredibly helpful for refining your work and preparing it for publication.

• Networking Opportunities: Conferences are a fantastic place to meet other graduate students, established academics, and potential future collaborators. These connections can lead to future research projects, mentorship opportunities, and even job offers.

• Build Your CV: A conference presentation is a great addition to your academic CV. It shows that you're an active and engaged researcher in your field.

• Stay Up-to-Date: You'll be exposed to the latest research and trends in your field, which can spark new ideas and help you to refine your own work.

• Develop Your Skills: Presenting your work helps to improve your public speaking and communication skills, which are essential for any academic career.

By following these steps and keeping the benefits in mind, you can confidently navigate the academic conference submission process and take a significant step forward in your graduate career.