Journal #1

   So the first short speech is over, and I have to say that it really wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I wasn't very nervous because it was only 60 seconds, but whenever I get up in front of people I tend to feel uncomfortable, but that's normal. As we get into the larger speeches I might be a little more nervous, but as long as I'm speaking about something I'm adamant about it's not too bad. Im taking this class for the reason that I want to go to law school after GMU and I've never met a lawyer who hasn't had to address some aspect of public speaking. I really feel even if I don't pursue a law degree, public speaking is vitally important in any career field I choose.
  I need to improve on my overall confidence when giving a speech in front of people and really take notice and practice all the little things that come with public speaking. So with that said, by December 20th I hope to gain a better understanding of things such as gestures, eye contact, and all the things that go along with being a solid public speaker. The overall goal though of course is to become better and more confident in my speech giving abilities. So in a nutshell thats why I'm taking this public speaking course and as for what my professor can do to help me, well she seems understanding and lighthearted, so that helps relieve any anxiety I'm having about giving speeches in the near future.