From Classroom to Congress: A Student Preparation Series
From Classroom to Congress: A Student Preparation Series
Got research but not sure how to take it beyond the classroom? This dynamic three-part series is designed to help psychology students turn academic work into confident congress participation. Whether you’re preparing for the PsySSA Congress or another academic conference, the series walks you step-by-step through the journey from writing your first abstract to presenting with confidence in professional spaces.
Across the workshops, students will learn how to craft strong abstracts, navigate submission systems, and understand what happens after acceptance. The series then focuses on turning your abstract into a compelling poster or presentation, followed by practical strategies for presenting with confidence and managing nerves. Supportive, practical, and student-centred, this series aims to demystify congress participation and empower emerging scholars to share their ideas in ways that are impactful, ethical, and authentically their own.
Online | Live | Free
Part 1: Abstract Writing Made Clear
Workshop Details
- Date: 4 March 2026
- Time:18:00–20:00
- Cost: Free
- Online via Zoom
Thinking about submitting to the PsySSA Congress – or another academic conference but -unsure where to start? This workshop breaks down abstract writing into clear, manageable steps. Students will learn how to turn coursework, proposals, or mini-theses into compelling congress abstracts that are clear, concise, and aligned with submission requirements.
The session covers what makes a strong abstract, how to stay within word limits, and common mistakes to avoid. Participants will also gain practical guidance on choosing presentation formats, navigating submission platforms, and understanding ethical requirements. By the end, students will leave with the clarity and confidence needed to take that first step into academic knowledge-sharing.
Part 2: From Abstract to Confident Presentation
Workshop Details
- Date: 2 July 2026
- Time: 18:00–20:00
- Cost: Free
- Online via Zoom
So your abstract was accepted – now what? This combined workshop supports students in moving from accepted abstract to confident conference presentation. Whether preparing for the PsySSA Congress or another academic event, the session bridges both the technical and personal aspects of presenting research.
Participants will explore how to transform written work into engaging presentations, learning how to structure content clearly, design visually effective materials, and communicate ideas in accessible and ethical ways. The workshop also focuses on the experience of presenting – including managing nerves, speaking with confidence, staying within time limits, and navigating questions and academic dialogue.
With a supportive and practical approach, this workshop helps students bring their research to life while building the confidence and skills needed to share their work authentically in professional psychology spaces.
Part 3: From Presentation to Publication
Workshop Details
- Date: 9 September 2026
- Time: 18:00–20:00
- Cost: Free
- Online via Zoom
You’ve presented your research – now how do you take the next step and publish it? This workshop introduces students to the process of turning conference presentations into publishable academic work. Designed for early-career researchers and postgraduate students, the session demystifies academic publishing and supports participants in building confidence to share their work beyond the conference space.
Participants will gain an overview of how to identify suitable journals, adapt presentations into manuscripts, and understand the expectations of academic writing and peer review. The workshop also explores practical strategies for structuring articles, responding to reviewers, and navigating common challenges such as rejection and revision. With a focus on clarity, integrity, and scholarly voice, the session encourages students to view publication as an achievable and meaningful part of their research journey.
