SESAH 2009 by Kristin Rourke

This past weekend I presented a paper on the Starland Dairy at SESAH. This was my first paper presentation as well as the first conference I have attended outside of Savannah. This was a great experience, I felt inspired to be around so many other historians who enjoyed exploring the same things I do. SCAD made a really great impression on the community and as someone who rarely feels allegiance to organizations I found myself surprisingly proud to say that I was part of our school.
In between speakers I enjoyed talking with historians from all over the country at a variety of stages in their careers getting advice and giving advice, as well as just socializing. And of course, criticizing the architecture: the poor capital buildings got thoroughly dissected by our harsh eyes.
Thankfully, the group was not so critical of each other, after my paper presentation I received some valuable feedback and nobody said anything negative.

Here are a few tips I received that I consider worth listing:
o Compose the paper to be read out loud, using simpler syntax than you may usually employ (if it becomes too wordy, it may be difficult for the audience to follow your thoughts)
o Read slowly
o Try to have inflection but not in awkward moments
o Relax!

I hope to continue to perfect my paper presentation skills. See you at SESAH 2010!