How do you explain months—or even years—of graduate‑level research in just three minutes?
On March 4, 2026, seven Trinity Western University graduate students will step onto the stage to do exactly that at the annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition—an electrifying showcase of discovery, innovation, and the power of clear, compelling communication.
Hosted by TWU’s Office of Graduate Studies, the 3MT invites students from across disciplines to distill their research into a single, high‑impact presentation using only one static slide and no props, sound, or video. The result? A fast‑paced, intellectually charged event that makes cutting‑edge scholarship accessible, surprising, and genuinely thrilling.
Seating is limited, so if you’re curious about graduate school, passionate about research, or simply love a good competition, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Why 3MT matters at TWU
At Trinity Western, we believe that scholarship is not only about discovering truth but about sharing it responsibly, creatively, and courageously. The 3MT competition reflects this by empowering students to:
Communicate complex ideas with clarity and confidence
Engage broad audiences in meaningful conversations
Strengthen academic, professional, and public‑facing communication skills
Celebrate research that advances human flourishing and community well-being
From psychology and counselling to biblical studies, neuroscience, and cultural research, TWU’s 3MT lineup represents a vibrant cross‑section of graduate scholarship grounded in compassion, curiosity, and academic excellence.
Bottom row: Mark Parinas, Diksha Sharma, Katheryn Yang
Meet the competitors
Seven graduate researchers will compete for top placement—each tackling issues that matter deeply to individuals, families, and communities. While their full theses remain under wraps until competition day, here’s a glimpse of the ideas taking the stage:
Ekam Bopa Rai – exploring how intimate relationships adapt in the context of early‑onset dementia.
Abigail Broadhurst – examining how adolescents in helping roles experience vicarious trauma and potential growth.
Netanya Castillo – connecting ancient biblical grief practices with modern neuroscience and trauma research.
Hsin (Jessie) Chen – investigating how emotional suppression may shape mental‑health help‑seeking in Asian communities.
Mark Parinas – identifying caregiving moments that support or hinder mindfulness among caregivers of children with chronic illness.
Diksha Sharma – studying how parental attitudes influence international students’ mental‑health help‑seeking decisions.
Katheryn Yang – analyzing how Christian faith shapes pathways to posttraumatic growth.
These seven scholars bring not only academic expertise but personal passion, resilience, and creativity. Each has just 180 seconds to make their case—and every second counts.
Why you should attend
Whether you’re an undergraduate student exploring your future path or a graduate student seeking inspiration, 3MT is the perfect way to experience the heart of TWU’s research culture.
It’s fast, fun, and surprisingly dramatic—you’ll be amazed how quickly three minutes can fly.
You’ll learn something entirely new—about the brain, trauma, culture, caregiving, faith, relationships, and more.
You’ll see what graduate research actually looks like—and how TWU students are shaping conversations that reach far beyond campus.
You get to be part of the excitement—cheering on competitors, celebrating scholarship, and witnessing transformative ideas in action.
This is not a lecture. It’s an experience.
Save the date & save your seat
With only seven competitors and limited seating, this year's 3MT promises to be an intimate, high‑energy, and unforgettable event. Come early, bring a friend, and get ready to see research come alive!
Date: March 4, 2026
Time: 1–3 p.m.
Location: Norma Marion Alloway Library’s Glass Room
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students for life. Uniting faith and reason through Christian teaching and scholarship, TWU is a research institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the humanities and sciences as well as in several professional schools. TWU has its main campus in Langley, B.C. and campus sites in Richmond, B.C. and Ottawa, Ont. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact media@twu.ca.