ofessors who specialize in teaching public speaking speak on the problems many face and the tricks to avoid them. Naomi Narcisse of Southeastern Louisiana University explains the troubles many incoming students face when entering the course.
“Imagine saying what you want, how you want and watching others do the same for your entire life. Then imagine someone telling you that your words have power, but you have to be mindful of what and how you say, what you want to say. To a lot of people that is intimidating. Everyone wants to be noticed and gain attention but no one wants to be a leader,” said Narcisse.
She describes public speaking as something comes natural to people, but when it comes down to presenting in front of others in a certain manner, things may become intimidating. When first presenting many students can become nervous and experience some spectrum of anxiety. Narcisse says: “I do see students with high levels of anxiety. They should think more about how important it is for the audience to hear the information they have to give us. Everyone needs to take a public speaking class. Firstly, because it is needed no matter what you are going to do with your life and secondly, because we need to stop running from things that make us nervous. Real growth happens when you do something uncomfortable.” The skills gained from public speaking can be used in a plethora of ways and it is crucial to be able to communicate effectively. Narcisse persuades students to take the course head on instead of being scared, and realize how to become accustomed to speaking about topics that will influence an audience. Escaping the comfortability of simple conversation and transitioning to a speech about a piece you are confident on will make the course easier as long as you practice and are confident.
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public speaking