FAQ
1. Who should apply?
Canadian Students pursuing a diploma, degree, graduate or doctorate in a field related to the environmental sector.
2. How do I apply?
Complete the online application form, and then submit an academic reference letter and proposal describing your environmental research.
3. How will winners be selected?
A strong research project, proposal, and reference letter will guide the selection process. In an effort to have a diverse and representative group of winners, we will consider students from both colleges and universities from across Canada at all levels of education—diploma, after-degree, bachelor’s and graduate degree.
4. What will winners receive?
Winners will receive a $1,000 prize to help cover the cost of attending an international envrionmental conference. This includes flights, accommodations, and some meals. Winners will also receive a delegate pass to attend the tradeshow and conference sessions.
5. If I win, what will I do at the conference?
All winners will have the opportunity to network with conference attendees at the tradeshow booth. They will also be given an opportunity to present their research via a poster presentation to interested delegates. Furthermore, winners will be invited to attend one of ECO Canada’s EP networking events.
6. Do I apply as an individual or can I apply with a group?
All individual research projects will be in contention. If a group research project is submitted, the group must select a single person to represent the group and only this individual will receive the Student Award.
7. What is the purpose a poster presentation?
A well-executed conference poster presentation will communicate information and ideas to stimulate informal, one-on-one discussions between presenters and delegates. Poster displays will be included at ECO Canada’s booth on the tradeshow floor.
Poster presentations should outline studies, projects, or other research in a format that is easily understood and that stimulates interest and discussion between students and conference attendees. When creating your poster, display your results clearly and strikingly to attract delegates who might be interested in your topic.
8. Any tips on preparing the poster?
Here are some suggestions to help make your poster accessible, attractive, and informative:
-
Simplicity is key. Your poster should outline only the main points of your work. It should not attempt to include all the details—save these for delegates who show interest. The ideal poster is designed to (1) attract attention; (2) provide a brief overview of your work; and, (3) initiate discussion.
-
The title of your poster/project should appear prominently at the top of your presentation. The typeface should be easily readable by someone standing approximately 15 feet away. Below the title, display the name(s) and affiliation(s) of the author(s).
-
Use colour to highlight points and to make your poster more attractive. Think about what attracts you to posters and other visual displays. Be creative.
-
Enlarge all photographs so that pertinent details are clear.
-
Use text sparingly—you can always communicate finer points to interested delegates and/or prepare handouts.
-
Make your poster as self-explanatory as possible. This will free up your time during the poster session for discussion with delegates.
-
It should be obvious where to start reading the poster and where to go from there (generally left to right, top to bottom). The component parts of your poster should either be numbered or have arrows that lead the reader through your display.
-
Test mount your poster before you leave for the conference and rehearse your presentation with someone.
9. What kind of presentation should I prepare for?
You should prepare a one-minute overview and a short presentation (several minutes) that you can give periodically to those assembled around your poster. Be ready to repeat this presentation several times as delegates move through the area.
Above all, when making your poster presentation, be open to receiving delegates' questions and comments—and their appreciation of your efforts!
10. What size should my poster be?
Your poster must be commercially printed as a single sheet of paper. It must be 36 inches (91 cm) in height and 30 inches (70 cm) in width.
If you have additional questions or comments, please contact Laura Sykes at studentawards@eco.ca