Save the Date
February 26, 2025, Boston, in-person event
What is the IMPACT Symposium?
The Master’s and Professional Doctorate Student Impact Symposium is a unique in-person event that showcases the experiential learning and practical experiences of graduate students at Northeastern University. This symposium, jointly organized by the Graduate Student Government, the Office of the Provost, and the Office of the Chancellor, provides a dedicated platform for students to present their practical and experiential work, from volunteering to community work, special projects, and co-ops, . Through poster sessions, students demonstrate how their efforts contribute to industry advancement and societal impact. With a collaborative approach across colleges, this symposium aims to spotlight the breadth and depth of graduate students’ influence beyond the classroom.
Who should attend?
The symposium is open to all graduate students at Northeastern University, with particular emphasis on Master’s and Professional Doctorate students from all colleges. Whether you’re a student seeking to present your work, or gain insight into different fields, this event is for you. We also invite faculty members, industry professionals, and potential employers who are interested in learning about the innovative projects and research being driven by graduate students.
Benefits
Attending the IMPACT Symposium offers significant benefits, including the chance to build professional networks and enhance your visibility with potential employers. Presenters will develop valuable skills in communicating their work to diverse audiences, while all attendees will have opportunities to explore different sectors through breakout sessions tailored to industry fields. The symposium’s collaborative environment encourages interdisciplinary connections and provides a supportive space for students to showcase their contributions to the broader community.
General Information about IMPACT Symposium
Dates for 2025 IMPACT Symposium Cycle
December 17, 2024 – Virtual Information Session on the IMPACT Symposium
Register in advance for this meeting
- What can be presented at the IMPACT Symposium
- Registration Process & Abstract Submission
- Making a poster and presenting at the IMPACT Symposium
December 18, 2024 – Abstract Submission Opens
January 15, 2025, 5 PM ET – Submission Deadline
January 22, 2025 – Review Deadline
January 23, 2025 – Outcome Notification
February 14, 2025 – Poster submission for printing deadline
What can be presented at the IMPACT Symposium?
We invite you to submit projects you’ve worked on or completed from February 1, 2024, onward. These can span a variety of formats and topics, including:
- Types of projects: Impactful work that can be presented in a poster format including but not limited to: volunteering work, community engagement, practicum, clinic, co-op experience, research project, artistic work, innovative solution, internship, etc. Your work should demonstrate impact, fostering a culture of innovation and societal contribution.
- Location and Format: Projects completed on-campus, off-campus, during co-op, practicums or internships, or even independently are welcome.
- Mentor Approval Required: All abstracts must be approved by your mentor. Be sure your mentor agrees to your work being presented at the symposium.
- Project Status: Projects don’t need to be fully complete, but there should be substantial progress. This is not a place for project proposals.
- Primary Presenter Limitation: Each student can serve as the primary presenter for only one project.
What is an abstract?
Your project summary should be brief—no more than 150 words—and accessible to an educated, non-specialist audience. Here’s what to include
- Question: Clearly state the question or challenge your project addresses.
- Significance: Explain why your project is meaningful, both within your field and for a general audience who may not be experts.
- Methods and Conclusions: Offer a glimpse into your approach and any key findings or insights.
Keep it concise and engaging to spark interest! Write in plain English, and be sure to proofread for clarity and impact.
What should you expect when you submit an abstract?
Registration for the IMPACT Symposium
Register on the abstract submission system (Oxford Abstracts) using your official Northeastern University email. A confirmation email will be sent to that address—please confirm it to begin your submission.
- Submission Limits: Only one abstract is allowed per project, and you may submit a maximum of two abstracts as an individual.
Get ready to showcase your work!
For Presenters
Are you ready to show your work? Below you will find step-by-step instructions on how to submit an abstract, prepare a poster and what to expect at the IMPACT Symposium
- Create Oxford Abstracts account
- Fill in the required information and submit an abstract
- Review process and decision
- IMPACT SYMPOSIUM Template
- Information to include on the poster
- Additional resources
- Before IMPACT SYMPOSIUM
- At the IMPACT SYMPOSIUM
For Guests and General Audience
If you are interested in presentations, speakers and posters below you will find some helpful tips.
What can I expect at the IMPACT Symposium?
The IMPACT Symposium is an in-person event that celebrates the impactful work of our graduate students. This unique event invites students from all colleges and campuses to participate and showcase their work to the Northeastern University community and beyond.
The event is open to graduate students, faculty, staff, and employers. If you want to view student posters and attend the keynote, please reserve your spot using the link provided here
Event Details:
- Date: February 26, 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
- Location: Curry Student Center
Student posters will be presented in two sessions:
- Session 1: 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM
- Session 2: 12:45 PM – 1:15 PM
We look forward to seeing you there!
