Real-world experiences typically refer to learning opportunities that take place outside of traditional classroom settings and engage students in practical, hands-on activities that simulate or directly involve actual work in their field of study. These experiences aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing students to gain skills, insights, and problem-solving abilities that are directly relevant to the professional world. These experiences also provide the opportunity to apply the FCS Body of Knowledge to real-world issues. Accepted abstracts will prepare a poster that highlights at least one of the real-world experiences in which students are engaged in expanding their theoretical knowledge and understanding of the FCS Body of Knowledge. Posters need to be a faculty member and student team presentation and include the evaluation used to determine the progress or project outcome.

Projects or activities that could be considered "real-world experiences" include:

• Client-Based or Industry-Sponsored Projects: These projects involve working directly with external organizations or businesses, which could be local companies, non-profits, or government agencies. Students often take on tasks such as market research, product development, or providing consulting services.
• Fieldwork and Service Learning: Fieldwork involves students working in real-world environments where they can directly observe and interact with the community or subject of their study.
• Simulations and Case Studies: While not always directly linked to external organizations, simulations can provide a controlled but realistic experience of real-world decision-making.
• Entrepreneurial Ventures: Some students gain real-world experience by starting their own businesses or ventures as part of their coursework or through extracurricular activities.
• Study Abroad or Global Programs: Study abroad programs, where students immerse themselves in a different culture while working on projects or internships, can offer valuable real-world experiences that are globally relevant.
• Volunteer Work and Nonprofit Engagement: Volunteering with organizations can offer valuable experiences, especially when students take on leadership roles or contribute to meaningful community projects.
• Internships or Co-op Placements: These are structured opportunities for students to work in industry settings, providing exposure to the day-to-day operations and challenges of a particular field.
• Capstone Projects: Often at the end of a degree program, capstone projects are comprehensive, real-world challenges that require students to apply the skills they have learned to solve complex problems, often in collaboration with industry partners or organizations.

Abstract Submission: Submissions are due by 11:59 PM EST on January 30, 2026. The submission requires the completion of the online Abstract Application and submission of the completed Abstract Template (CFA Faculty-Student). Submissions that do not adhere to the submission requirements will not be reviewed. The abstracts should be submitted as Microsoft Word files (Times New Roman 12 point font size) using the official Abstract Template, not to exceed two pages. The Abstract Submission Template (CFA Faculty-Student) is organized according to the following sections (in order):

• Title of the Real-World Experience
• Institution
• Name and Email Address of Faculty Member(s) and Name and Email Address of Student(s)
• Abstract Summarizing
  • Real-world Experience
  • Application to Body of Knowledge
  • Student Engagement
  • Evaluation/Outcome

Acceptance and Notification: Submissions will be reviewed, and the corresponding applicant will be notified by February 27, 2026. Acceptance of the abstract requires at least one of the faculty members or students to register for and attend the 2026 Annual Conference.