What to Expect on Contest Day
Contest Day is an exciting and generally long day! Students arrive for registration between 7:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. and the day concludes with the awards ceremony that usually ends around 3:30 p.m.
What to Bring:
Students must bring three copies of all paperwork, except paper and website students who should bring one copy. For those participating in the Documentary category, save your project on a shareable link that can be viewed by judges (like google) and a thumb drive, and, if you can, bring a laptop with your project as backup.
Contests are usually all day events. Judges must review up to ten projects, meet with students, choose the top finishers and write thoughtful evaluations for all the projects. Students do not have to attend the Awards Ceremony, so once judging is complete (and if there are no finals rounds) Between meeting other NHD students, checking out the projects and hanging out with old and new friends, you might want to consider bringing along:
- A book or other reading material
- Homework
- A game or playing cards
In addition, at some venues there may be some entertainment options like a movie.
Regional Contest Example Schedule
The Food Situation:
You’re probably going to get hungry. We suggest packing a lunch or snacks. In addition, the contest in Hartford has a variety of restaurants within a reasonable walking distance. For the other Regions, a number of restaurants are located a short drive from the contest site. At some venues, there may be food for sale. A list of restaurants will be provided to you in your information packet that you will receive on the day of the contest.
The Wi-Fi Situation:
For those bringing laptops or other electronic devices, please be advised we cannot guarantee Wi-Fi service.
NHD Contest Disclaimer
National History Day and Connecticut History Day do not censor Contest entries based upon content. This means that the views and opinions expressed in student entries are those of the students and/or the sources cited in their projects. They may not and often do not represent the views or opinions of National History Day, Inc. or its donors, sponsors, supporters, partners, or affiliates