RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Dr. Amanda Furiasse, Assistant Professor
In your opinion/experience, what is the purpose of a conference? The purpose is to network and share your ideas with your colleagues so you can receive feedback and input from them and ultimately improve upon your work.
In your field, is it typical to deliver Poster Presentations or Oral Presentations? In your field, do panelists typically read papers or speak without notes? Oral Presentations are typical and people mostly read from papers or prepared notes
In your opinion/experience, what is the responsibility of an audience member? An audience member listens to the presentations and offers feedback to the presenters after they have presented their work in the question and answer time typically allocated at the end of presentation panel sessions. It's generally frowned upon to be looking at or using your phone during the presentations.
How would you describe your presentation persona? (or What is an effective presentation persona?) My presentation persona is fun, relaxed, and passionate about my work.
How do you handle performance anxiety? Best way to handle performance anxiety is to understand that everyone at the conference is supportive of your work and is there to offer their support and guidance to you.
How do you 'network'? Best way to network is to go to other panel sessions as an audience member where you can offer support and feedback to other presenters
Any tips you normally give to first-time goers? Always leave enough time for yourself so plan on being at the conference early, if you are there really early you can help set up and make new friends.