The newly created Public Speaking Club at RVCC is a perfect place to improve your confidence and become an effective communicator and leader. They aim to help students develop their public speaking skills, enhance confidence, and understand why communication is important. The club offers various opportunities for members to practice and refine their public speaking abilities, such as weekly meetings where individuals can connect, work, and learn how to communicate better. I got a chance to interview their president, Nahary Boraei, and their executive vice president, Narolyn Toribio to discuss what the club is and how it is going to help budding students.
Boraei and Toribio both believe that public speaking is a necessity, used both in professional and social life. However, it is something that many students struggle with. They want to make students feel comfortable in their speaking ability, and they aim to do so by providing a supportive and inclusive environment. They plan to organize regular meetings where students can practice their public speaking skills and receive constructive feedback from their peers and are both confident that by creating such opportunities, the club will empower budding students to become confident and articulate speakers, benefiting them in all aspects of their lives.
Toribio said, “Many people experience nervousness, shyness, or stage fright when they have to speak publicly, which can affect their performance and self-esteem”. However, she adds that by joining the public speaking club, “Students would be exposed to a supportive and constructive environment, where they can practice and improve skills, receive feedback and encouragement, and learn from people like them.” Boraei said, “The club isn’t about competition, it is a community, a comfortable space. You are not required to be good at public speaking to join, because the club’s purpose is to help people overcome fear, explore potential and to learn to speak publicly while being their authentic selves.” Toribio also emphasizes that the club aims to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity, welcoming students from all backgrounds and skill levels. Boraei and Toribio both believe that this is going to be helpful for students who genuinely want to improve communication skills, verbal and non-verbal.
Boraei and Toribio are looking forward to helping students expand their network and opportunities, both personally and professionally. The club is a place where people can share their interests and give and receive advice, support, and friendship. By joining the public speaking club, students could be open to new possibilities and connections, such as mentors, collaborators, and other clubs who can help them advance their skills and goals. The Public Speaking Club meets every Thursday during college hour (1:00 PM-2:20 PM) in Room W-112.
