Atmosphere in which you show your object. If you need a pedestal obtain one make one or better yet figure out how not to use one. Think about the Lighting fluorescent lights are almost never a good way to look at fine artwork, find a better light source. Finish the piece, make us believe. This includes transforming that shiny bolt from the hardware store into part of your ancient relic.
Nothing wrecks our buzz faster than reality from a hardware store.
Work Hard, Take Chances, Good luck. For example, to me the essence of Japanese culture could be described by an installation of 1000 origami animals. I could make1000 origami cranes to represent the denseness of population in Tokyo, the age-old tradition of paper folding and the meticulous act of making ordered objects that have many hidden meanings. Someone else may choose Godzilla attacking the city, for the same reasons. Be prepared to present your ideas in class next week with supportive materials.