how does it feel like to be judged by prof.scientist?

Question

i might go to science fair and i need tips

Answer 1

Don't be intimidated. I am a retired scientist...a professor emeritus in the Earth/space sciences. I have judged many science fairs from the local level up to the state level. As scientists, we too have been judged by our peers. When we have to defend our research for advanced degrees or for publication in professional journals we, like you, can experience uneasy feelings. It is great to be commended for your work, but scientists can also learn much from research that doesn't work out. It doesn't discourage us, for we have contributed to the sum of knowledge by not only finding what works, but what doesn't work. If we don't "win the prize" we have learned what we have to do to make the project better. Most judges will be helpful. I know of many students who started with poor projects but improved them every year by applying what they have been told by the judges...and eventually wind up as first place winners. A baseball player at bat doesn't quit after the first missed swing. They just get more determined to get a hit on the next pitch. So win or lose...feel good that you have learned something and gave it an honest try.

Answer 2

I've presented as a student at a lot of conferences--just presenting posters--where the main audience is professional geologists. Generally, they're interested in your work and very respectful of your ideas. It can be a lot of fun to talk to them, and as pointed out above, they often give very useful constructive criticism if they give criticism at all.

I'd really recommend going to this fair; it'll be a great experience and I've found presenting and talking about your work really helps you learn how to articulate your ideas well. It's fun, it'll look great on resumes/college applications, and it's a great learning experience.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Hi. It feels good if the response is positive. They LOVE something new. Mine was a three dimensional galaxy made by putting plates of glass (9 of them) inside a white painted box that was back lit by flashlight bulbs in the corners. The stars were black and the background was white but I got honorable mention for originality (brag brag brag). My teacher flunked me anyway. (I was a punk!)