Science-A-thon FAQs
Questions?
Please send any questions or suggestions you have regarding Science-A-Thon to staff@scienceathon.org.
FAQs
Who can participate in Science-A-Thon?
Where do Science-A-Thon proceeds go?
What if I don't have a public social media account?
Why does Science-A-Thon take place in October?
Can I participate without registering?
Who is running Science-A-Thon?
How is Science-A-Thon supported?
How do I register for Science-A-Thon?
What is Science-A-Thon?
Science-A-Thon is a five-day social media celebration of science, engineering, technology, and math – widely known as STEM! The goal of Science-A-Thon is to increase visibility of science and the important role it plays in the world. Anyone who advances scientific knowledge or applies science to solve problems is welcome to participate – from mathematicians and engineers, to doctors and industry researchers and developers.
Where is Science-A-Thon?
While the idea for this event sprouted in Madison, Wisconsin, it has quickly taken off on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and is now celebrated on social media all over the world! Science-A-Thon is not an in-person event, so anyone and everyone can join. All participants will be mailed a registration package that includes a t-shirt and other science-y swag.
Who can participate in Science-A-Thon?
Anyone 18 or older is welcome to participate. We also welcome students and members of the public to spend the day connecting with science. Whether you define yourself as a scientist every day or just want to join in for the day, we are excited to see you doing science!
Where do Science-A-Thon proceeds go?
This annual event is a project of the Earth Science Women’s Network (ESWN), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting the scientists of today and welcoming the scientists of tomorrow. All donations made to Science-A-Thon are fully tax-deductible. Funds raised from Science-A-Thon 2020 will support current and future initiatives of Science-A-Thon and ESWN.
What if I don't have a public social media account?
It’s free and easy to set up Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! If you don’t want to create a new account, there are other options:
1. Share your day through Snapchat, email, or any other social network.
2. Send us your posts (either prior to the event or throughout the week), and we will post them through the Science-A-Thon social media feeds.
Note: By sending your posts, you agree that these materials can be used in promotional activities of Science-A-Thon.
When should I participate?
Science-A-Thon takes place during the third week of October each year. Science-A-Thon is five days long to allow flexibility for participants and broader community engagement. You are welcome to share a few photos a day, lots of photos in a single day, or engage in whatever way fits your goals and schedule. Each day of the week will have an optional focus based on fields in and around science.
I want to participate, but I'm not able to during the week of Science-A-Thon... Can I still participate?
Yes! You can take pictures from another day before the start of Science-A-Thon and share with #scienceathon and #dayofscience through social media! This will help us boost awareness of #scienceathon leading up to the event — even people who will be online during the week of Science-A-Thon are welcome and encouraged to join in early!
Why does Science-A-Thon take place in October?
Science-A-Thon takes place in October to better connect to students and teachers in a way that will increase the relevance of Science-A-Thon. The move now corresponds with Earth Science Week, which fits our role as a fundraiser and promoter of women in STEM.
Can I participate without registering?
Only registered Science-A-Thon participants (Standard, Champion, and Laureate) will be listed on our website and promoted in our outreach material and media engagement. We encourage everyone to register so we can give you the credit you deserve! Registered participants will also receive complimentary Science-A-Thon t-shirts.
We encourage scientists and science supporters to show your science love every day of the year, whether or not you’re participating in Science-A-Thon!
Who is running Science-A-Thon?
Dr. Tracey Holloway is the Chair of Science-A-Thon and is the designated contact for media and corporate inquiries. Tracey is a scientist and professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, working to connect satellites and computer models with air quality and energy.
How is Science-A-Thon supported?
Science-A-Thon is supported by our generous sponsors. Science-A-Thon is looking for corporate sponsors and private donors to ensure this exciting event is a success. Click here for more information on sponsorship.
How do I register for Science-A-Thon?
Click here to join the Science-A-Thon team! We strive to make this event accessible to all. If you are unable to contribute a monetary donation this year but still would like to participate, please contact info@scienceathon.org for complimentary registration.
Can my entire lab group register for Science-A-thon?
Yes! Science-A-Thon is now offering block registrations, which allow organizations to sponsor Science-A-Thon by pre-purchasing registrations for members or guests of your organization in increments of $500. For each $500 block, organizations can choose to purchase 10 Standard Science-A-Thon registrations or 2 Laureate Science-A-Thon registrations.
This sponsorship option allows organizations to promote their work by featuring employees on social media and foster team building opportunities within their organization, all while supporting a high-impact, international event focused on diversity and inclusion in STEM. Your organization's name will be listed on the Science-A-Thon website, featured in one or more tweets from Science-A-Thon, and mentioned in Science-A-Thon's online magazine, The STEM.