Have you ever struggled to capture an audience's attention with the most concise language in the shortest time possible? Virginia Tech's "Spark Series" is a transformative program designed to help undergraduate researchers hone this exact skill. By merging research depth with presentation efficiency, the initiative prepares students to become master communicators of the future.

The 90-Second Challenge

At the heart of the program lies its signature "Spark Talk" — a 90-second presentation challenge. Students must condense intricate research projects into engaging, bite-sized narratives. This exercise not only tests their grasp of the subject matter but also sharpens their ability to distill core ideas, structure language effectively, and deliver compelling public speeches.

Collaborative Support

The initiative is a joint effort by Pamplin College of Business's ISERC (Integrated Security Education and Research Center) and MAOP (Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program), with additional support from the Spark Lab. Directed by a professor of practice in the Department of Management, Spark Lab provides students with expert coaching and resources to refine their delivery and maximize impact.

More Than a Competition

The "Spark Series" transcends a typical speaking contest. It serves as a holistic platform for growth, enabling participants to elevate their research quality, strengthen communication skills, and expand professional networks. These competencies lay critical groundwork for both academic pursuits and career advancement.

Virginia Tech's commitment to fostering innovative thinkers shines through initiatives like this, where scholarly rigor meets real-world applicability.