Professional Presentations: Writing and Delivery- that was what I saw on my schedule the first day of classes. Also known as public speaking. Just the name of it caused me severe anxiety. I dreaded giving once a month Spanish oral presentations; I couldn't fathom the idea that I was taking a class where all I would do is speak in front of a room full of people. The fact that I was an undeclared sophomore with little direction of what I wanted to do entering a classroom full of seniors whom I would speak in front of caused me to literally sweat from being so stressed out. Now, I can honestly say that this class is one of the best stress-relievers I have ever encountered, and whatever your major may be, it is something you should encounter as well.
The course is a turbo taught by Dr. Jennifer Lee Magas and like many professors do on the first day of classes, she asked us to go around the room stating our major. Listening to seniors state their set major, I was a little embarrassed to say that I was undeclared. However, after Dr. Magas stated her occupation and explained how she has tried out many different types of fields in her life, I realized that she too, was undeclared. In fact, she even seemed excited about the fact that she was going to get to help me find my direction.
This class goes beyond the idea of public speaking. If I was going to summarize this course in one statement, I would say that it focuses on allowing us to decide who we want to be and helps us present ourselves this way to companies. On the first day, Dr. Magas asked us to choose an internship we think we wanted and the following classes provided us with valuable lessons that would help us land this internship.
For example, we have talked about cover letters, resumés, interviews, communication skills, and how to use social media to network yourself. Helpful guest speakers have come in to talk about what they wanted to see on a resumé, and how to use LinkedIn. Next week, a guest speaker from the Human Resources department at GE is coming in to talk about what she looks for in candidates when she recruits. No matter what field you are planning on going into, this course will provide you with helpful tips in order to network yourself and help you land your dream career.
It's safe to say I also managed to conquer my fear of public speaking in this class. The atmosphere in the classroom is laid-back, and each student is there not to judge you, but rather help. We provide each other with feedback on what each person did well and what they can improve on. I thought I would be insulted by the criticism, but it actually helped me realize things about myself and the way I speak that I did not realize before.
Every time I leave this classroom, I leave with an "I-need-to-get-my-life-together-attitude" and confidence knowing that I actually can. Other courses may load me with work, adding stress to my daily life. This course, however, tells me that it's OK to be stressed and that my future can still be bright. More so, as an undeclared student, it has showed me that I will find my direction and has given me universal tools that will help me get whatever job I want.
Undeclared or not, I highly recommend that you take this course before you graduate. When your future self goes on an interview and is able to talk in a professional manner and show the employer a perfected resume, you will thank yourself and Dr. Magas.
