CONFERENCE
“I am delighted and proud of the chance to represent the University of Latvia. After my presentation, I received a lot of compliments – both from the audience and all the jury members. People emphasized that my story increased their understanding of the importance of easy language, gave an emotional imprint, as well as being significant in the global context,” V. Polinska, a doctoral student at UL FH, expresses her satisfaction after the competition.
Although the main prize of the competition – the Polar Bear statuette designed by François Pompon went to another contestant, V. Polinska emphasizes: “During the days of competition I gained invaluable experience.”
It was an opportunity to meet and get to know the other participants of the competition, as well as learn about their research – “from antimicrobial fabrics and mathematical equations replacing the contrast agents to rhythm exercises for the development of children’s language skills, the symbolic meaning of Catholic priests’ clothing and satellite images for more targeted use of water resources in agriculture.”
The contestant also benefitted from the unusual practice within the competition – the participants, while preparing the speeches, presented their research in front of each other. “Nothing was hidden or kept under wraps until the moment of the presentation. We practiced, listened to suggestions from colleagues, modified presentations, changed emphases in order to present our best version in the grand finale, which everyone succeeded in doing.”
Moreover, it was an opportunity to learn from excellent teachers – the contestants were led by a Norwegian team: Arne Larsen, Thomas Eikeland Fiskå and Michael Ormshaw. “It was a unique experience because the work was implemented together, in front of all the participants. Arne helped each of us understand our shortcomings and reinforce the main message, Thomas improved our presentations by adding digital effects, whilst Michael provided props on stage. At no point were there any reproaches, direct remarks that something was wrong or inappropriate, or sharp criticism – such a respectful and positive working style would be valuable for everyone to learn. We simply grew together,” recalls V. Polinska.
The doctoral student is enchanted by the charm of Dijon and the French sun, which is a great treasure in November.
Recalling that her own participation in the national selection and further in the finals was accompanied by coincidences and impossibilities, V. Polinska expresses her gratitude to Gunta Kalvāne and Mārtiņš Pričins for their encouragement and support, and invites young researchers to apply for the FORTHEM pitch or short speech competition next year, because it is a unique opportunity and an exquisite contribution to their personal growth.
 of the University of Latvia (UL), participated in the finals of the FORTHEM Researcher Grand Prix, which challenges doctoral students and early-stage researchers to present their research in a maximum of three minutes. The competition took place in early November, Dijon, France (Université Bourgogne Europe) with participation of nine researchers from Latvia, Finland, Norway, Romania, Poland, Italy, France, Spain and Germany.){kind=link}