An Open Invitation For Diverse Ideas

SPEAKERS
APPLICATION 2016

Our annual TEDxMSU conference features a number of speakers and performers that represent the diverse, innovative, and influential ideas from the Michigan State University community. Anyone associated with MSU – including students, alumni, faculty, and other affiliates – are eligible to speak at our conference.

Speakers Selection Timeline

NOMINATE A FRIEND

APPLY TO SPEAK

Speakers Application 2016

Part 1: Background Information

Name: *

Name:

First Name

Last Name

Email Address: *

Phone Number: *

Phone Number:

(###)

###

####

What is your affiliation with MSU? *

MSU Affiliation (College or Department if applicable): *

Area of Interest: *

Type of Talk: *

Speech

Tech Demo

Spoken Word/ Poetry

Musical

TEDxLab

Other

Briefly tell us any additional noteworthy facts about yourself (Occupation, recent work, any honors or distinctions): *

Part 2: Talk Proposal

Please write a paragraph (250-500 words) describing the vision behind your talk: *

How could your talk tie in with the theme of TEDxMSU: Möbius? *

In one sentence, who in the audience do you think will personally identify with your talk. Who are you hoping to reach with what you’re bringing to the TEDxMSU table? *

In one or two sentences, explain the take-away message you hope your audience gets from your talk. *

Part 3: Holistic Assessment

Answer one question from Question Set A and one question from Question Set B. Please limit your answers to 2-5 sentences per question. There are absolutely no right or wrong answers to these questions - this is simply a way for us to get a sense of your personality.

Question Set A

1. If you had one million dollars to dedicate to your idea, how would you spend it?

2. When you’re not at work, what do you do two standard deviations better than anyone else?

3. A möbius strip is a 2-dimensional object that exists in a 3-dimensional space. This is often considered a marvel of mathematics--such a transformation is not easily conceptualized. Describe a transformation that you have undergone yourself.

Question Set B

1. If you were a smell, how would you describe yourself?

2. Are you more of a hunter or a gatherer? Why do you think so?

3. If you were a pizza delivery worker, how would you benefit from scissors?

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

TEDxMSU isn't a typical conference. Our audience has high expectations of the speakers; the TEDxMSU Speakers Committee works with speakers in advance of the conference to help shape a presentation that will succeed on the stage.

How do I suggest a speaker?

Fill out our speaker nomination form, and our Speakers Committee will contact the individuals directly and ask them to fill out an application.

Can I suggest someone I don't know personally?

Please do! Just let us know how you've heard about this person, and why you think they should speak at TED.

Do I have to be affiliated with MSU to apply to be a speaker?

No. All applications will still be openly accepted and considered, regardless of MSU affiliation. However, as the purpose of TEDxMSU is to promote ideas tied to MSU, there will be a strong preference for applicants affiliated with the University.

Can I speak at TEDxMSU by becoming a sponsor?

No. Please reference the rules for sponsoring a TEDx event. Sponsoring TEDxMSU has many benefits, but a guaranteed speaking slot is not one of them.

Does my TEDxMSU Talk need to be a speech or presentation?

No. We are also looking to include a number of talks that involve interactive demos, music, and other kinds of performances.

What do you pay speakers?

TEDxMSU does not pay speakers. We do, of course, offer accommodations for travel costs, as well as complimentary passes to our conference. Other benefits include pre-conference coaching and training, special events for networking, the gift bag, and broadcast-quality video production of your Talk. We are committed to creating an experience that's tremendously fulfilling and beneficial on all sides.