Showcase Presenter FAQ

1. Who will be at the showcase?

The showcase is a celebration of your work in your first semester. College leaders, professors, staff, and many other first year students will be there to meet you and learn about your research. So, you will have a mixed audience of peers and members of the college community. Presenting is not only a way to share what you have learned, it is also a great opportunity to meet people and learn about classes, programs or research opportunities you may want to pursue in the future.

2. What should I wear to the showcase?

You should plan to dress business casual. This includes dress pants, dress shirts, blouses, business skirts, and button-downs. You don’t need to wear a suit, but you should dress for an important professional event.

3. Do I have to check in for the event?

Yes, check-in starts at 1:30pm on the 2^nd floor of New Building. Pick up your presenter badge, walk the red carpet, take your picture in front of the step-and-repeat, grab a snack, and you’ll be directed to your project.

4. Am I responsible for project set-up?

No. Projects will be set-up in advance and peer success coaches and staff will be available to help your group locate their presentation. You are responsible for preparations to present the material and your research to anyone who visits your project.

5. How much time do I have to present at the showcase?

All students present their work simultaneously, so you and your group can plan how to share presentation time. For instance, you may decide to visit projects of your classmates for the first 25 minutes, then present your own projects for the second 25 minutes. At least you or one group member should be at your project for the entire duration of the event on Community Hour.

6. Is it mandatory that I present even though I’m working with a group?

You should plan to contribute during your presentation even if you are presenting with a group. This is a great opportunity to speak in front of small groups without all eyes on you. You can practice public speaking and gain confidence in your abilities to share important information.

7. What if someone is missing from my group or I am absent on the day of the showcase?

If someone is absent, your group should still present. Your professor may have class requirements related to showcase presentations. Please check in with them so you know how the showcase can impact your grades.

8. Will the showcase event be filmed or photographed?

Yes. As with many John Jay events, we will be photographing the event. We want to celebrate your research and knowledge and exhibit your success for future first-year students

9. Will there be refreshments?

Yes. You can pick up a bottle of water and snack by the entrance.

10. I want to use my showcase project as a resume entry. What format should I use?

You will need the presenters’ names and title of your project to create your entry. This information can go in a presentations section. Here’s an example of how to format your project on your resume:

Ruhlman, M & Lopez, B. (2024, December). How does Twitter influence opinions about political candidates? Poster session presented at the First Year Student Showcase, John Jay College, New York, NY.