In today’s academia, presentations are an essential skill for students. The ability to create and present engaging content is simply invaluable. Moreover, the power of presentations extends far beyond the obvious.
In this guide, we’ll show how you, as a student, can stand out in various situations by using presentations.
1. Presentations as a Tool for Defending a Thesis
Presentations are often used in thesis defenses. They encourage students to research thoroughly and organize their thoughts in a clear and visually appealing way. When you create a presentation, you’re not just summarizing information; you’re engaging in active learning.
When crafting a presentation, you reinforce your understanding of the subject. Besides, you don’t just do extensive research; you need to communicate effectively to succeed in defending your thesis.
Here’s a slide from a thesis (C.Kolb, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, US) on drinking water quality and risks associated with it. It’s concise, informative, and easy to understand.
Tip: When preparing a presentation, think about your audience. Use visuals, charts, and infographics to break down complex information.
Use tools like Wonderslide that will not only help you craft a well-structured and beautiful presentation with its AI-powered designer but will also save a lot of time (which, we know, every student is in shortage of).
2. Defending Your Position in Debates
Debates are an excellent way to develop critical thinking and public speaking skills. Presentations can be a powerful tool during debates, helping you to lay out your arguments and counterarguments.
A well-prepared slide reinforces your points and makes your position more convincing.
Example: Imagine you’re participating in a debate on climate change. A slide with a graph showing the global temperatures rising faster and faster over the last 30 years makes your argument more persuasive than words alone. It also helps the audience visualize the data.
3. Collaborating on Group Projects
Group projects can be challenging, especially when it comes to coordinating with your peers. Presentations serve as a collaborative tool for all group members to contribute their ideas and information in a structured format.
Working together on a shared presentation boosts teamwork and lets everyone’s voice be heard.
Tip: Use Wonderslide to craft a visually appealing and structured presentation, download it in pptx format, and then go to Google Slides for the group collaboration. This tool allows multiple users to work on the presentation simultaneously, making it easier to divide tasks and maintain consistency.
The design and structure will be already taken care of by Wonderslide.
4. Enhancing Your Portfolio for Internships
When applying for internships, students often compile a portfolio to show their skills and accomplishments. Presentations can play an indirect yet important role here. By using presentation techniques in your portfolio, you demonstrate your ability to communicate ideas clearly and professionally.
Tip: If you’re applying for a marketing internship, making the first impression is paramount. Include a professional-grade presentation where you analyze a marketing campaign. Potential employers will appreciate your analytical skills and proficiency in presenting data and insights.
5. Personal Branding
In today’s digital age, personal branding is a key to success. Presentations can be used to build your personal brand. You can do it through sharing your knowledge at student events or online platforms like LinkedIn. A Linkedin profile can be the start of a successful career.
A well-crafted presentation will show your expertise and leave a lasting impression.
6. Supporting Academic Applications
Presentation skills can also be a great help if you apply for scholarships, study abroad or advanced academic programs.
A presentation-style way of delivering your message can set you apart from other applicants. If you have extensive experience in presenting your ideas to the audience, you will shine in the interview and secure a scholarship or a membership in a study program.
Here, your skills as a presenter will be most useful because you will need to convince your audience that you’re the best candidate.
A good example of an effective presentation in this area is this video pitch to obtain an RMHC scholarship (Ronald McDonald House Charities).
The applicant provides a compelling and very well-structured self-presentation. She uses the techniques of an effective speaker. If you want to know more about the art of public speaking, check out our article on the subject.
Final Thoughts
Presentations are a versatile and effective tool to enhance your academic and professional life. By mastering the art of creating and delivering presentations, you can improve your grades, stand out in a competitive job market, secure a scholarship, or build a strong personal brand.
Think of a presentation as a tool to develop skills that will serve you well in the future.