One of my life's biggest regrets was allowing someone to get the better of me when I was in grad school. I was pretty much in the same boat as you working for someone who was very "image conscious." So I kinda know your fear. Please don't let that happen to you OP. You have every right to present at that conference and if you have some important research to share then you should be the one presenting it. People might say something to you, just ignore them, if you stutter you stutter, focus on the content. If you're afraid of a situation where you loose the audience, you could always do what the guy in the opening scene of the movie *Rocket Science* did. He basically stops a heckling crowd by saying "there's a reason I'm up here and you're down there now pay attention." Because it's true, they're there to hear what you have to say, not how you say it. ​ I'd add you're also in a pretty good position in that you have a whole year to build your confidence and experience up. Maybe try joining toastmasters or another public speaking club on campus? Years from now, you'll look back at this experience as one that really helped build your character. You can do it!!