The Tanner Conference is a full-day event that provides a venue for students and alumnae to reflect critically upon, analyze and share their off-campus experiences. The conference explores the learning that occurs through internships, service learning experiences, international study, experiential learning in courses, independent study, fellowships, and research. Over the course of the day, students, faculty, staff and alumnae will be part of individual presentations, panels and roundtable discussions.

What is the Tanner Conference Exhibition?

The Tanner Conference Exhibition is an opportunity for students to learn about the College's international study, Wintersession, and internship programs. The Exhibition will be held from 12:00 - 1:30 pm in the Wang Center, Tishman Commons.

When is the Tanner Conference?

October 28, 2008, from 8:30 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. at Wellesley College.

How do I apply for the Tanner Conference?

You can access the online application by clicking here.

When is the deadline for applying?

Tuesday, September 9, 2008, at noon.

Who should apply to present at Tanner?

The Tanner Conference Committee welcomes applications from all students and alumnae who would like to share their off-campus learning with the College community. The Committee uses the term "off-campus learning" because it encompasses many types of experiences, including internships, research conducted away from Wellesley, Study Abroad, 12 College Exchange, and Wintersession Programs.

Are non-students allowed to participate in Tanner?

Yes. While Tanner is primarily a forum for students, some presentations can be greatly enhanced by the participation of faculty, alumnae, and members of the larger community. At times, faculty organize their own panels and roundtable discussions. Students should feel free to invite community members to participate on panels, particularly when the topics reflect College-community partnerships, such as service-learning programs.

I had an internship this summer, but it was not sponsored by Wellesley. Am I eligible to apply?

Yes. We want to hear from all students, regardless of who funded their internship experience.

   What aspects of my off-campus learning experience should I emphasize in my abstract?

The purpose of the Tanner Conference is for students and alumnae to reflect critically upon, analyze, and share their off-campus experiences. The ideal abstract explores essential aspects of your off-campus learning and reflects on how your experience continues to shape your opinions, Wellesley experience, or goals. Please reference the Preparing Your Tanner Abstract and Sample Tanner Abstracts sections of this Web site for more information.

If I submit an individual application, will I be presenting alone?

No. If you submit an individual presentation, you will be thematically grouped on a panel by the Tanner Conference Committee.

Am I required to have an advisor?

Yes. It will be most helpful to you if you choose an advisor who is familiar with you as well as with the subject matter on which you want to present. This does not mean that s/he needs to be your major advisor, or even a faculty member. It could also be a staff member that you feel would be most appropriate to help you in preparing your presentation.

Am I able to display my artwork at the Tanner Conference?

As a presenter, you can elect to display any visual aids to support your oral presentation in your designated presentation room. However, students can participate in the Tanner Conference through the sole display of their art work in public areas such as the Pendleton Atrium and Knuckle. These art exhibitors are required to have at least one advisor from the Art Department and to stand by their display for the session that their exhibit is listed in the Tanner Conference Program in order to answer any questions from visitors. If exhibitors are having difficulty identifying an advisor in the Art Department, please contact Phyllis McGibbon, the Art Department representative to the Tanner Committee, or email Tanner@wellesley.edu.

Whom should I contact if I need help finding an advisor?

Please contact Tanner@wellesley.edu if you are having difficulty identifying an advisor. Also, refer to the previous question which offers suggestions about who you might ask to advise your Tanner presentation.

Additional questions?

email Tanner@wellesley.edu


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