Knights in Focus
Knights in Focus
The Knights in Focus Video Competition invites UCF graduate students to step in front of the camera and share how their academic work and experiences at UCF are shaping the future. Through short, compelling videos, students have the opportunity to highlight their research or creative projects, reflect on their graduate journey, and demonstrate the value of graduate education at UCF.
This competition isn’t just about storytelling; it’s about giving graduate students a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Whether you’re developing groundbreaking research, advancing creative work, or applying knowledge to real-world challenges, your story has the power to inspire.
Mission
The Knights in Focus initiative was created to spotlight the ambition, excellence, and multidisciplinary endeavors of UCF’s graduate student community. Through this annual competition, we aim to:
- Showcase graduate research and creative work in a format that is accessible and engaging to broad audiences
- Promote student success stories that illustrate the transformative impact of graduate education at UCF
- Empower students to communicate their work in ways that resonate beyond academia, preparing them for future leadership, public engagement, and professional visibility
Expectations
Participants will create a short video (30 seconds or less) that introduces their area of research or creative focus and reflects on how their UCF experience has shaped their academic or professional journey.
Workshops will be available in the Graduate Student Center to help participants develop their message, improve their delivery, and learn best practices for creating high-quality videos using accessible tools and equipment.
Participation
All currently enrolled master’s and doctoral students at the University of Central Florida are eligible to enter. Whether you’re in the lab, the studio, the classroom, or the community, your work and your voice matter.
Submissions
- Review the full Submission Guidelines and Requirements.
- Attend an optional workshop to refine your message.
- Put your creative caps on and film your video.
- Submit your final video and required materials by the deadline: January 30 at 11:59 PM (EST)
Entries will be reviewed by a panel of faculty, staff, and students, with finalists determined based on clarity, delivery, relevance, and impact. Finalist videos will be shared publicly, and graduate students will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite.
Awards
Top submissions will be recognized through:
Scholarships awarded to the top three entries
Feature placement on the College of Graduate Studies’ official social media channels
A public showcase during UCF Student Research Week, where finalists will be celebrated at a special viewing event
This is more than a competition; it’s a chance to become part of UCF’s collective story and inspire the next generation of scholars, creators, and changemakers.
Enter
Are you ready to share your story?
Visit the link below to access submission guidelines, review eligibility, and begin your journey toward recognition.
For questions or more information, contact us at graduate@ucf.edu.
Tools and Resources
Video production tips and guidance are available through UCF Libraries.
Students have free access to LinkedIn Learning where they can find additional training resources.
UCF Libraries offers free high-end audio and visual equipment rentals.
The College of Graduate Studies will host workshops to help students craft their pitch. (Details TBD)