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Looking down a roll of black paper on the sidewalk outside of D. H. Hill Jr. Library. Kneeling in front of the paper are undergraduate researchers using chalk to draw their research in colorful and creative ways. Visitors are standing around watching the researchers draw and/or talking with the student researchers about their work.

Fall Sidewalk Symposium

Undergraduate researchers from across the campus are challenged to share their hard work (at any stage in the process) by drawing it on the sidewalk.

Co-hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Research and University Libraries

Target Audience

Everyone is welcome to come and see what our creative NC State undergraduate researchers have to share. In particular, students who are curious to get involved in research are encouraged to attend and ask questions. This is a great opportunity to see the many forms of research, brainstorm ideas, and network with other students. Friends and family of presenters, plus community members are especially welcome to come and support the Wolfpack. We love to have you visit!

Enjoy a video overview of the Fall Sidewalk Symposium!

Event Dates and Information

Symposium Date

September 25, 2025

D. H. Hill Jr. Library (Hillsborough Entrance)

In rainy conditions, held in D. H. Hill Jr. Library’s Fishbowl Forum)

Visitor Parking

Schedule

11:00-12:30 P.M.

Presenters draw their research and answer visitors’ questions.

Abstract Book

Browse descriptions of student projects.

Fall Symposium Abstracts

Abstract Submission Process

To participate, fill out the Fall Sidewalk Symposium Abstract Submission Form by no later than September 8, 2025 9:00 A.M. In order to process submissions and schedule details of the symposium, we cannot accept late submissions. Forms will open August 11, 2025. Please note participants must be NC State undergraduates (whose research does not have to be conducted at NC State), or visiting students who have conducted the featured research with an NC State mentor.

You will be asked to provide the following:

  • Presenter Information (name, email, ID, and affiliation)
  • Co-presenter Information (name, email, ID, and affiliation)
  • Mentor Information (name, email, and affiliation)
  • Presentation Information (title and mentor-approved abstract)
    • Maximum Character Limits: Titles (60 including spaces), Abstracts (1500 including spaces, formatted as a single paragraph without sections or citations)
    • Note: Abstracts without faculty/primary mentor approval will not be accepted, students should have mentor approval before submission.
  • Funding Program Name or Associated Class/Group (if relevant)

Class or Group Participation

We welcome instructors and group leads advertising the Fall Sidewalk Symposium to their students as an optional professional development activity in which to participate or visit. If you would like to require participation and/or attendance, or integrate the Fall Sidewalk Symposium into your course or group activities in another way, we ask that you please reach out to us (undergraduate-research@ncsu.edu) so that we can work together on the best arrangements for all parties.

FAQs

What happens at the Sidewalk Symposium?

Student participants draw their research on the sidewalk outside of D.H. Hill Jr. Library (Hillsborough Street Entrance) while visitors walk around and ask questions. Afterwards, participants can take their masterpieces with them, since the artwork is done on paper covering the sidewalk. Check out our video towards the top of this page.

Can I still present if my project isn’t finished?

Yes, projects at any stage (even the beginning) are welcome!

I’m not a very good artist, can I still participate?

Yes, all levels of artistic ability are welcome! The goal is to be creative with how you share your research and to have fun.

Do I need to bring my own materials?

No, you only need to bring your creativity! We’ll supply all the materials needed to illustrate your research.

What happens if it rains the day of Sidewalk Symposium?

In the event of rain, we will move the Sidewalk Symposium indoors to the Fishbowl Forum (D.H. Hill Jr. Library) and participates will still get to draw their research and engage with visitors.

Where can visitors to the campus park?

D.H. Hill Jr. Library provide parking information for guests and directions for those who need accessible routes.

NC State is committed to providing an inclusive environment and, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, will honor requests for reasonable accommodations made by individuals with disabilities. Requests can be served more effectively if notice is provided at least 10 days before the event. Direct accommodation requests to 919-513-0095.