Please see rules and format for more details.

Early Bird Application Deadline: November 3rd, 2024, 11:59 pm PST

Regular Application Deadline: November 24th, 2024, 11:59 pm PST

The following application must be submitted by all contestants looking to participate in the MATIN Talks National competition. Please note, you are required to submit all of the following items by the deadline. Also, please note that the listed deadline is for PST; please ensure that you account for time-zone differences when planning to submit your application. Please use the link at the bottom of this page to fill out and complete your application.

• Talk title
• Abstract (<1300 characters)
• Short biography of yourself (<500 characters)
• Headshot image (not a portrait image)
• One minute video pitch

For applicants who wish to compete in groups of 2 members:

• Both of you will fill out a single application.
• The information (e.g. name, email, head shot image, biographies, etc) of both members must be included in the application form.
• You will submit a single typed abstract.
• You may submit a single video pitch, but both of you must be present and speaking in the video. (If you cannot meet with your partner in person, you may record a zoom video call with both of you present and speaking, then submit the recorded video as your video pitch.)

Allow sufficient time to prepare the required documents and submit them in a timely manner. Under no circumstances do we accept late submissions after the posted deadline.

Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation email with your responses. You will be notified via email if you are selected to move forward. If you are selected, we will ask for any supporting material, if needed, at that time.

Format of Competition

Application: Talk Title, Abstract, Short Video Pitch (prerecorded), Presenter Bio, Headshot Image

Round 1: Selected participants give full-length presentations, competing for a slot in round 2. Presentation slides may be used but are not required.  The top participants are selected by a panel of judges. These presentations are not given in front of a live audience.

Round 2: The top participants will give full-length presentations in front of a live audience. Presentation slides may be used but are not required.

Juniors and adults will compete in separate round 1 events and will present in front of a live audience during the second round. Please see rules & guidelines for more information.

Competition Dates (tentative and subject to change)

Round 1: December 28, 2024, Time TBD*

Round 2: December 29, 2024, Time TBD*

*Pacific standard time (PST), please ensure that you account for time-zone differences.

What is an Abstract?

The abstract gives you the space to explain your pitch in a little more detail. Abstract limit is a maximum of 1300 characters. This should be submitted along with the video pitch before the aforementioned deadline.

What should be included in the abstract?

1. 1. Your main topic, argument, or claim
   2. The significance of your topic
   3. Your supporting points
   4. Your references and sources

What is a Video Pitch?

The video pitch is a short one-minute video that introduces your topic and gives a summarized overview of the major points that will be covered in your full-length presentation. The video pitch must be prerecorded and sent along with your application.

What should be included in the video pitch?

1. 1. Your full name
   2. Your main topic, argument, or claim
   3. A brief list of your supporting points

Video Submission Criteria:

• • White background
  • Headshot style recording of yourself (not portrait)
  • Good lighting
  • Good video quality
  • Good video sound

What is a Presenter Bio?

The presenter bio allows you to share a bit of your background and biography. It allows the judges and audience to become more familiar with who you are and what you’ve done. Please write this in the form of third person and with a maximum of 500 characters. This should be submitted along with the video pitch and abstract before the aforementioned deadline.

What should be included in the presenter bio?

1. 1. Your full name
   2. Your academic background
   3. Your career pathway
   4. Your personal interests or hobbies

Do you have any questions or concerns?

Please email us at registration@matintalks.com