Public Viewing

What to Expect

• High Energy Environment: We’re expecting over 5,000 visitors over these two days, including school groups, families, and community members excited to see your innovations!
• Rotation Schedule: To ensure you have time both to present your project AND explore the STEM Expo, we’ve organized a rotation system (details below)
• Questions from Visitors: Be prepared for questions from people of all ages and backgrounds—from curious middle school students to university professors. Most will likely be playing the mySTEMspace adventure game (learn more below)
• Media Presence: Local and national media often attend these days, so you might be interviewed about your project

Finalist Rotation Groups

Tips for Presenting to the Public

Unlike judging, presenting to the public requires a different approach. Here are some helpful tips:

The 30-Second Rule

Most visitors will spend just a brief time at each project. Be ready with a quick 30-second summary that covers:

• What your project is about
• Why it matters
• Your most interesting finding or result

Know Your Audience

Adjust your explanation based on who you’re talking to:

• For younger children: Use simple language and focus on the “wow” factor
• For high school students: Emphasize how you came up with your idea and overcame challenges
• For adults/experts: Be prepared to discuss your methodology and potential applications

Engage Actively

• Stand in front of your poster rather than sitting down
• Make eye contact and smile
• Ask visitors if they have questions
• Use props or demonstrations if appropriate and approved

Take Care of Yourself

• Keep a water bottle with you
• Take short breaks when needed (your rotation schedule will give you longer breaks too)
• If you need assistance, Team UV members and ambassadors are there to help

STEM Expo Highlights

When it’s your turn to visit the STEM Expo, don’t miss these exciting opportunities:

• Hands-on Activities: Many booths offer interactive experiences that demonstrate real-world applications of STEM concepts
• Career Information: Connect with representatives from universities, research institutions, and companies to learn about future opportunities
• Special Demonstrations: Check the schedule for special presentations happening throughout the day
• Networking: This is a great chance to meet professionals in fields you might be interested in pursuing

Check out the exhibitors you’ll be able to connect with during the STEM Expo here:

Visit the STEM Expo page

mySTEMspace Adventure Game

Most of our school visitors will be playing the mySTEMspace Adventure game – visiting different projects to chat with finalists and earn stickers. Your ambassador will give out the stickers to you on Thursday and Friday morning. Please keep the stickers safe by tucking them into your nametag. When the students come by, this is your opportunity to be a STEM Adventure Guide – chat with them about your project, what they are interested in, and how they could do their own STEM project. Make it fun, share the cool things you’ve discovered, and encourage them to go on their own STEM adventure! If you run out of stickers, share the love and direct them to another project in your row.

Reminders

• Always wear your name badge so visitors can identify you
• Keep valuables secure – don’t leave personal items unattended
• Stay at your project during your designated “Stay at Project” times
• Respect the schedule to ensure all finalists get equal opportunity to present and explore

We’re excited for you to share your passion and hard work with the public!