Abigail Rajendran Represents VUW at Trans-Tasman 3 Minute Thesis Competition

Abigail Rajendran - Victoria University 3MT Winner 2012

On 11th October 2012 I was honoured to represent Victoria University at the Trans-Tasman Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, which was held at the University of Queensland at the Brain Institute. I spoke on my Masters project titled ‘Magneto-rheological compliant actuator for stroke rehabilita- tion’. The day started early with all contestants and supporters arriving at 8am. Contestants were mainly from Australia and New Zealand with a few from Hong Kong and Fiji. We were greeted with a delicious breakfast (including danishes YUM!). A room was allocated to contestants where we were briefed on the rules and how the competition and day would run.

We were broken up into four heats each containing 11 contestants and the two highest scoring in each heat went on to the finals. At the end of each heat certificates were presented to the contestants. Between heats we had a ten minute drink and food break. The contestants not competing in the current heat were allowed to attend the talk, held in a neighbouring lecture theatre, wander around or watch the online stream which was available in our room. Nerves were a little high all round and the quality of the talks was amazing. The topics ranged from law, to science through to the arts.

The judges had it cut out for them as it was extremely hard to fault anyone and it was very evident that everyone had practiced their talk more times than they would want to admit. At the conclusion of the heats the judges commended the quality of the talks and the eight finalist were chosen (sadly I was not one L), before we broke for lunch. Stress levels were reduced among those not in the finals, and students were able to get pointers off each other to overcome similar problems that were faced in their research. After lunch the eight finalists competed again and a new set of judges selected first place - Tim Paris, second place - Lauren Hollier and the audience chose the people’s choice - Tristan Simons, all did an awesome job!

Following the competition a cocktail reception was held where the winners were awarded their trophies and everyone had a chance to socialise (and eat more food!). Overall I had an incredible time, learning how to better my communication skills as well as learning about the vast range of research out there in under three minutes (beats having to read a thesis)! I would highly recommend this competition to anyone even considering it. Give it a go! It is a great experience and you won’t regret it.

What I learnt and advice to future students: firstly I was surprised by how few masters students there were as most the other competitors were PhD students (but don’t let that hold you back if you are a masters student!). Keep it simple! Although your research is probably second nature to you explaining it to a non-specialised audience is a different story. The less work the judges need to do to think and understand your talk the easier their job is (remember they had to listen to over 40 talks in the space of a couple of hours). In saying that, don’t water it done too much, people want to have learned something. Maybe have one strong idea/ point and make it relatable. Practice your talk to friends and family. If they can understand it, then you are on the right track. Explain why your research is important, who and how it will benefit those around you. Make it interesting, jokes work really well. Your audience should be left enlightened but also curious to know more. Enthusiasm is contagious, when you are clearly enthused and excited the audience and judges will be too!