The time has finally come! You’ve worked so hard the past year to get to this point, and now, you are getting ready to head to ISEF.
Only 1800 of the best student scientists get to this point, out of 7 million that compete in qualifying fairs, so you should feel immensely proud of yourself.
But what are you supposed to pack for ISEF?
As a past ISEF winner and frequent attendant of scientific conferences, I’ve compiled a complete list of what to bring to ISEF and your attitude ahead of your week at ISEF.
Your ISEF Packing List: 6 Essential Items
Pack Business Attire
As you have likely noticed at your qualifying fairs, business dress for judging sessions is expected. That usually means a suit! Bring an outfit that looks professional but is still very comfortable, because you are going to be on your feet for 8 hours or more on the day of judging.
In addition to a suit, pack 4-5 other business casual outfits that you can wear to other events, like the various symposiums, award ceremonies, and exhibits that ISEF offers throughout the week.
Comfortable Footwear is a Must
Ladies, this is mostly for you, please do not wear heels to your fairs. Like I said, these are long days and you have to be able to walk and stand for extended periods of time. A sensible pair of flats or other professional-looking shoes would be your best bet.
Casual Clothes Matter
There will be other events at ISEF where you won’t need to be in business attire, like going out for dinner with other people from your delegation, or going to the big ISEF mixer. You should pack 2-3 comfortable, more casual outfits for these ISEF events.
Take Pins With You
My favorite event at ISEF was the HUGE pin exchange between all the states and countries on the first day of the fair. Besides the pins that your state will probably give you, feel free to bring other fun state souvenirs to exchange with people.
This was definitely a highlight event for me because of the sheer amount of interesting students you get to meet, and all the little presents you give each other are a big bonus.
Your Science Fair Poster
You need to bring your poster with you to ISEF, but you do not need to bring a board to attach your poster to.
ISEF will have standard 36x48 inch trifold boards in the exhibit hall for you to use, so just pack your poster in a mailing tube or other suitable container.
Bring Your Research Material
I recommend that you bring a few copies of your research paper, as well as some copies of your abstract and logbook for judges to take a look at.
You can also bring business cards or other personal contact sheets to pass out if you have a particularly strong connection with anyone at ISEF.
Bring Your Confidence to ISEF
Now that you have packed everything you need for ISEF, it’s time to talk about the mentality that you need to bring. Like I said in the beginning, getting to this point is a huge accomplishment. So be confident!
It is easy to be overwhelmed by the number of competitive and impressive projects amongst you, but remember that everyone has worked hard and is experiencing a lot of the same doubts and nerves as you are.
Take pride in what you have done and enjoy yourself! ISEF was one of the best weeks of my life, and I hate to think that others are so stressed that they forget to have fun.
Above all, ISEF is a celebration of the work it took to complete a research project like yours, so take it in stride and celebrate yourself.
Would You Like ISEF Support and Coaching?
Preparing and packing for ISEF can feel overwhelming, especially if you're navigating it alone. You're suddenly expected to think like a researcher, communicate like a scientist, and present like a professional.
At ScienceFair, other mentors and I coach students going through this process. If you want targeted feedback on your project, help with your poster, presentation, and judging strategy, we can help.
Schedule a consultation call to connect with one of our team members and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
