Frequently Asked Questions

• Presentations
• Visiting SJSU
• Judges, Moderators, Volunteers
• Getting Around, Feeling at Home

If you have questions not covered below, don't hesitate to email us at csustudentresearchcomp2026@sjsu.edu.

Presentations

• What equipment is available?

  • Each room will have a computer, projection system, and a slide advancer. You will upload your slides via Google Slides prior to the event.

    If you need additional equipment or have an audio/visual presentation with additional space or tech requirements (i.e., for a creative component), please indicate your needs in the registration form.

• Should I bring a flash drive?

  • This shouldn't be needed as all presentations will run via Google Slides, which you are responsible for uploading by the deadline. There is little time for adjustments or faulty presentations. However, there's no such thing as being over-prepared.

• Who are the jurors?

  • You will have three jurors who are from the academic or professional community within your general disciplinary area. However, they are unlikely to be experts in your particular area of research, scholarship, or creative activity.

    Therefore, guide your presentation toward an informed audience who may not be familiar with your specific area, and be prepared for a range of questions in the Q&A. 

• What are the judging criteria?

  • See Guidelines

• What should I wear?

  • Wear whatever empowers you as one of California's most promising student researchers! Consider "business casual", or dress more formally if that works best for you. 

    Check out these pictures from last year's competition at Cal Poly Humboldt to get some ideas.

    SJSU students can check out the Career Closet for free professional clothing.

• What are the presentation rooms like?

  • Most presentations will be held in small classrooms with capacities around 30-50. However, be prepared for anything: you may end up in a large lecture hall, or a Student Union room, or your room could change at the last minute.

• Who will be at the presentations?

  • At a minimum, there will be three jurors and a moderator. You can also expect attendees from your own campus, students scheduled to present before or after you, other competitors interested in your topic, and any friends, family, or guests you invite.

• Is there anything to do in my down time?

  • Students often check out other presentations or explore campus during their down time, and there are also cool things to do just moments away from campus. We're right in the middle of San José! Check out the Travel page for ideas.

Visitors

• Is there anything I need to do in advance, or just show up?

  • All visitors must register in advance, including family and friends of presenters, campus supporters, and student participants. 

    Registration is required even if you're just coming to one portion of the event, like the awards ceremony. Registered attendees will receive further instructions and pick up an entry badge upon arrival.

• Is there a cost?

  • The events are free for student delegates, CSU affiliates, and family and friends. Campus delegations are responsible for travel, lodging, and meals not provided in the event schedule.

• What is the weather like?

  • Temperate! In late April, highs are generally in upper 60s to low 70s, with lows in the upper 40s and low 50s. Campus rooms can be well air conditioned, so consider bringing a layer for indoors.

• How do I get to SJSU?

  • See Travel.

• Where should I park?

  • See Travel.

• Is there anything fun to do in San José?

  • Oh yeah!  See Travel.

Getting Around, Feeling at Home

• How do I find my way around?

  • Google Maps works for campus locations, or you can use this interactive campus map.

• Is this an accessible event?

  • Yes, campus buildings and entrances used for the competition are accessible to individuals with differing mobility. If you'd like to check anything in advance, don't hesitate to email csustudentresearchcomp2026@sjsu.edu.

• Does SJSU have gender-neutral bathrooms?

  • Yes, check out this map.  Best options for the competition locations:

    - Student Union (SU) first floor, second floor, and lower level.
    - King Library (MLK) 252, second Floor
    - Interdisciplinary Science Building (ISB), first floor

• Are there any prayer or meditation rooms?

  • Yes, there will be prayer/meditation rooms available. Please come back for locations a little closer to the competition.