Stand Up, Speak Out!

Emily Gordon and Abigail Karrh

Treasure Coast Delegation

     The mere idea of public speaking is enough to send some people into an immediate panic. This problem is one of the most common difficulties faced by first-year delegates at State Assembly. However, it is also one of the first things delegates manage to improve upon through their experiences here.

     Krista Reinhardt, a DLA for the Department of Education, addressed the necessity of public speaking, “Even if you’re shy, at some point, you’re going to have to speak in front of a crowd.” Anything from school assignments to community activism requires communicating with a large number of people to accomplish a goal.

Speaking in a professional environment for the first time is rough, and no one ever does it quite right. With practice however, delegates of any year will find themselves better able to express themselves and convey their ideas to an entire room. Luckily, YIG gives students the perfect opportunity to gain confidence in their speaking. “You’re just kind of thrown into it… You have to find what method of speaking works for you.” Reinhardt continued.

Tessa Shurr, a fourth-year Williams Representative said, “A few years ago, I couldn’t speak in front of five people without shaking… [Through YIG] I’ve been pushing myself and every year I just get better and better. I never would have gotten to this point if I hadn’t gone to State Assembly.”

     “YIG has improved my public speaking by leaps and bounds. Before, I couldn’t even speak in a classroom and now I can speak in front of 600 people.” Nick Cosola, the DLA for the Department of Health said.

These delegates are not alone in their experiences, students across every program area improve themselves through YIG. Not only do they they learn how to speak well, but they also tend to find something they want to speak for.

One of the key tenets of YIG includes discussing ideas and improving on these ideas using input from others. That is best achieved when delegates can structure their ideas well and communicate them with ease. Whether they are passionate about personal freedom or education, students learn how to fight for what they believe in through Youth In Government.

The process of overcoming a fear of public speaking may be a long one filled with nerves, but the payoff is enormous. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!