DRESSING THE PART

The phone rang and you've made it to finalist judging...but what are you going to wear?

Yes, the science and engineering in your project is the main focus. But you are also a salesman convincing the judges that your project is better overall than the person standing next to you. Dressing the part will help give you more confidence when the judges come by with their clipboards.

While there aren't any official dress codes for the fair, pretend you will be attending a business meeting at a large corporate office.

Don't think you have to wear a three piece suit. Dress slacks, a clean ironed shirt and comfortable shoes are the ideal choice for everyone. If you have a jacket or a blazer that's good too. Jeans, flip-flops, t-shirts, high-heels, short skirts, and shiny shirts are all things to avoid. If you could easily go to a club with the clothes you're wearing then you might think about toning it down a little. On the opposite side of the spectrum, dressing like grunge is still is in style is also inappropriate.

Wearing the right clothes means that you'll be able to focus on judges' questions; rather than worrying if you look o.k.

Yes, it's ok to bring a book to read. No, you can't bring your cell phone to pass the time.