April 18-22, 2011!

Murray State University is pleased to host “Scholars Week,” a university-wide celebration of undergraduate and graduate scholarship, research, and creative work. This event, which grew out of very successful initiatives like the College of Humanities and Fine Arts’ Spring Colloquium, the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology’s Undergraduate Research Symposium, and other collegiate programs, is intended to showcase MSU student research, scholarly, and creative accomplishments through oral presentations, posters sessions, exhibits, and performances. 

As a student, why should you take part in Scholars Week?  The reason is really very simple. Presentation skills, regardless of your field, are very important to your future. Whether you are applying for a job, professional school, or graduate program, your ability to present yourself and your ideas is critical. In addition, while at Murray State, you need to be building your resume. In addition, ask yourself the following question, “What am I going to be able to list on my resume when I graduate?” You need to think about building your resume from the first day you arrive on campus. A presentation, performance, or exhibit at a campus-wide event like Scholars Week will be a valuable addition to your resume or portfolio.

Included as part of Scholars Week are:

• Numerous oral and poster session, exhibits and performance opportunities for individual undergraduate and graduate students from all colleges and schools to present either their independent or course-associated research, scholarly, or creative work
• Special events like–
  • Sigma Xi Poster Competition (click here for additional information)
• The “Sandra Flynn” Graduate Research Symposium in Education   
• Specific class-related sessions arranged by individual faculty
• Major dance and theater presentations and orchestral and choral performances
• A presentation by the faculty recipient of  the MSU Alumni Association’s “Distinguished Researcher Award”
• Luncheon hosted by our MSU President  for all students and faculty mentors participating in Scholars Week.

Presentation formats will include:

• Oral Presentations
  • 12-minute presentation followed by 3 minutes for questions
  • For specific class-arranged sessions, the length of time for a presentation will be determined by the individual instructor.  Please consult with the instructor on presentation lengths.
• Poster Presentation
• Posters may not exceed a dimension of 4 feet by 4 feet.  Easels and a 4 foot by 4 foot foam backing board will be provided on which to display your poster.  Backing material for the poster must be provided by the student.
• To design your poster, please click on “Tips for Designing an Effective Poster.”
• Performances and Productions
• Includes individual student plays, readings, and musical performances.
• Includes major class-related dance productions, theatrical performances, and choral and orchestral presentations. (For major performances and productions, individual students do not have to register on this web site as part of Scholars Week. Student names will be provided by the faculty performance directors.)
• Displays of Artwork
  • Includes individual student painting, drawing, photography, and sculpture exhibits
  • Includes senior art exhibits
  • Includes major program-associated exhibits like the OMAS Annual Student Art Exhibit (As for major performances and productions, students participating in the OMAS show do not have to register on the Scholars Week web site).