2 minute read
On Thursday 29 June, The Australian National University (ANU) College of Business and Economics (CBE) hosted the finals of CBE’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition.
Higher degree research (HDR) candidates participating in CBE’s 3MT had one PowerPoint slide and three minutes to explain in plain language what their research is, why it’s important, and what they have discovered.
“The 3MT competition provides a unique platform for contestants to practice and perfect their ‘elevator pitch’ on why their research is important,” says Dr Alex Eapen, CBE’s Director of HDR.
This year, HDR candidate Syeda Nusrat Haider won CBE’s 3MT with her work, The Real Effects of Financial Reporting. In her presentation, Nusrat addressed whether disclosing the CEO-employee pay gap affects employee treatment.
“I was incredibly nervous before my talk! After being declared the winner, however, I realised that nothing is impossible – all it takes is the courage to take that first step,” says Nusrat.
The support of her cohort made the win more exciting.
“Seeing the proud faces of my supervisor and fellow school members brought me immense joy, and I’m thrilled and proud to represent CBE at the ANU finals!”
Nusrat was motivated to enter by her desire to promote accounting as an area of research.
“When I mention my field of study, I’m often met with ‘What is there to research in accounting? Isn’t it all about numbers and financial statements?’” she says.
“I believe it’s essential to bridge the gap between academia and the general public, making our research accessible and relevant to everyone, and 3MT provided me with a unique platform to showcase my research in a concise and engaging manner.”
HDR Candidate Zeming Wang from the Research School of Economics was named runner-up for his work Essays on Money Finance and Business Cycles in China.
Alex commended the candidates for their efforts.
“This year, the competition was really close with the winner and runner-up being separated by only a small margin of points – a testament to the quality and presentation skills of our contestants,” he says.
Nusrat praised the CBE 3MT experience.
“I highly recommend other HDR candidates participate in 3MT. The ability to distil complex information into a concise and engaging format is a transferable skill that will serve you well, no matter where your path leads,” she says.
Nusrat will compete in the ANU finals against the other Colleges, for the chance to represent ANU at the Asia-Pacific finals hosted by the University of Queensland.
You can support Nusrat at the ANU 3MT finals on Thursday 27 July.
The ANU College of Business and Economics offers an extensive range of specialised programs. Click here for more