If you are presenting your research at the conference, as part of the Attendees Profile Form, we will capture information about your research. The form will be due on August 1st, 5 pm (EST).
Click here for Abstract & Presentation Guidelines
NOTE: After registration, attendees should complete the Student Attendee Profile Form to provide the necessary information. This form (which will also include Abstract & Poster submission) will be due August 1st, 5 pm EST, for publication purposes.
Conference Microcredential & Self-Reflection
Why Complete These Forms?
Attending a research conference is a significant investment of your time, energy, and intellect. The pre-planning and post-conference forms below are designed to help every attendee, whether you are presenting or not, pause and be intentional about what you hope to gain and what you actually experienced. These forms provide a structured moment of self-reflection and accountability that supports your growth as a scholar and professional.
When you complete both forms, you will receive a copy of your responses, giving you a personal record of your conference goals, engagement, and takeaways. This is yours to keep and revisit as you continue developing your research identity.
What is a microcredential? A microcredential is a competency-based recognition that allows a learner to demonstrate mastery in a particular area. It is verified by a recognized campus authority and signals specific skills to graduate programs, employers, and professional networks. A digital badge is the visual representation of that microcredential, which can be shared on LinkedIn, added to email signatures, or uploaded to digital portfolios. Learn more about UMBC microcredentials and digital badges here.
Presenters who complete all three steps below will earn a conference microcredential, issued as a digital badge. Here is the badge from last year’s conference as a reference.
For All Attendees
We encourage every conference attendee to complete both the pre-planning and post-conference forms. You do not need to be presenting to benefit from this process. Setting goals before the conference and reflecting on your experience afterward is one of the most effective ways to turn attendance into lasting professional development.
For Presenters: Earning the Microcredential
Presenters who complete the following three steps will earn the conference microcredential, issued as a digital badge:
- Complete the Conference Engagement Pre-Planning Form by Wednesday, September 16th, 9:00 PM EST.
- Present your research live at the conference (Thursday, Friday, or Saturday).
- Complete the Post-Conference Self-Evaluation Form by September 30th, 9:00 PM EST.
Once all documentation is complete and verified, presenters will receive an email with details on how to claim their digital badge. Our plan is to have everything verified by October 15th.
Note for UMBC RGPN & McNair Scholars: All UMBC RGPN and McNair Scholars are required to complete both forms, whether presenting or not.
If you have questions, please complete the Conference Assistance Request Form