Early on I approached Dr. Jeremy Petranka after our Strategy class and asked for advice on how to improve my ability to advocate, debate, and speak confidently in front of audiences. By the next residency, he had already formed and facilitated a mini Toastmasters program to help three of us who voiced similar concerns regarding public speaking. We developed trust within our small group, which allowed us to explore our anxiety triggers surrounding public speaking. I learned that I had been taught the opposite of what I should be doing, which is why public speaking made me so nervous. Dr. Petranka helped me realize that all I needed to do was simply be myself and stop trying to be something I was not.

Weeks after starting this group, I successfully made my first presentation at a conference, served as a panel speaker, and presented nationally on a webinar at work. The extra time that Dr. Petranka took with us and his advice has made a world of difference, enabling me to bring out the authenticity and confidence I was previously holding back when presenting.