FAQs about SCLC 2025

Conference FAQs

How do I connect next to the Wi-Fi at the University of Alabama?

We recommend connecting to UA-guest Wi-Fi. If you are a student and your campus uses eduroam, your devices may automatically connect on our campus.

What time zone is the conference in?

The conference will take place in Central Time - Tuscaloosa, AL  (CST/CDT)

Where should I park?

Please visit the Hotel and Travel page for detailed parking info.

What is the recommended attire for the conference?

Conference attire will include:

·    Thursday(evening welcome dinner): business cocktail

·       Friday (during the day): business casual

·       Friday (evening dinner): smart casual

·       Saturday: business casual

The most important item to wear is your SCLC name badge that you will receive at check-in!

Special Event FAQs

Can I get into the welcome dinner without a name badge?

No. You must be wearing your nametag to enter the Welcome Reception.

When do I pick up my name badge?

Name badge pickup will be available at the Bryant Denny Stadium from 4:30-6:00 pm on Thursday, prior to the Welcome Dinner.

What is the recommended attire for the evening events?

Conference attire for the Welcome Dinner is business cocktail. Be sure to check the local weather for the current conditions.

Registration FAQs

Can I pay and register onsite?

No. Pre-registration is required.

Can I pay after I attend the conference?

No. Pre-registration is required.

What if I would like to bring a guest?

Please be sure they are registered in advance. Pre-registration is required.

Competitor and Presenter FAQs

When do we learn if we are a finalist?

Finalists will be notified via email on 2/28.

Can I compete in a competition and present at the poster fair?

Yes, all attendees are welcome to participate in the poster fair, as no other events will be scheduled during this time.

When do we learn the competition results?

Competition results will be announced at the Keynote and Award Ceremony on Saturday.

What is the attendance policy for the competitions?

At the 2025 AIS SCLC, we are dedicated to ensuring a fair and competitive environment. Our guidelines are designed to provide all teams with an equal opportunity to present their work without distractions.

·      Entry and Exit Times

Spectators can enter or exit the competition room only during designated buffer periods, following each team's ten-minute presentation and five-minute Q&A session. Only judges will be allowed to ask questions to the presenting team to ensure fairness. A staff member will enforce these policies strictly, ensuring no interruptions once presentations begin. Nobody can enter or leave the competition room while a team is presenting.

·       Phones and Noise Policy

Attendees must silence all electronic devices and remain quiet during presentations and Q&As to prevent distractions and maintain a respectful atmosphere.

·       Competitor Holding Facility

Competitors will be held in a designated facility before their presentation time to prevent them from observing their competitors and ensure fairness. Teams will be escorted to and from the competition room according to the schedule.

·       Viewing Restrictions for Competitors

Competitors cannot watch presentations of teams within the same competition track to maintain a level playing field.

·       Enforcement and Compliance

Adherence to these guidelines is essential for fair competition. Please comply to avoid disqualification and removal from the venue.

We appreciate your cooperation in creating a respectful and competitive environment for all participants. Best of luck to all teams!

Independent Poster Fair FAQs

How will I be expected to travel with my poster material?

We recommend bringing smaller informational pieces that can easily be glued or pinned to a standard poster board. Poster boards and materials for attaching documents will be provided at the Bryant Conference Center. If you choose to bring a pre-assembled poster, that is perfectly fine!

Will there be any awards for the poster fair?

No, there will not be formal awards, but this is a great opportunity to engage with peers, faculty members, and company sponsors.

Can I compete in a competition and present at the poster fair?

Yes, all attendees are welcome to participate in the poster fair, as no other events will be scheduled during this time.

Location FAQs

What things are there to do in Tuscaloosa? 

UA Student Chapter President, Micah Pentecost, suggests: 

Need additional assistance?

If you have any questions or uncertainties as you prepare for your trip, please email ais2025@ua.edu or studentchapters@aisnet.org.