A Few Testimonials from My Wonderful Students and Clients:

We have had the chance to have a wonderful instructor who dedicated all her time to leading us to success and having good tools to be ready for the rest of our lives. Thank you very much professor. This semester moved quickly, but it taught me a lot about myself and the kind of communicator I want to become.

Public speaking has always made me nervous, and at the start of the semester, even standing up to speak made my hands shake. But I tried something new: instead of fighting the nerves, I acknowledged them and focused on breathing and pacing myself. Surprisingly, once I got through the first few sentences, the rest flowed more naturally. Learning to control my anxiety rather than let it control me is something I know will help me in future classes and even in professional settings.

Every assignment required something different — informative, persuasive, narrative — and each one pushed me to think about my audience. For example, in my persuasive speech, I learned to use clearer examples and a more confident tone, so my message would land. This skill taught me that communication isn’t one-size-fits-all; you have to adjust depending on who you’re speaking to and what you want them to understand.

Overall, these skills for managing anxiety, using feedback, and adapting my style have shaped me in ways I didn’t expect. They’ve helped me become more comfortable with my voice and more aware of how I connect with others. I know they’ll continue to support me in every space where communication matters. Thank you again professor.

Daniel A.

This workshop has taught me so many wonderful skills and techniques. I did not know what to expect and being an introvert the idea of public speaking has always been kind of intimidating to me. The techniques, tips and skills I learnt in this class helped me overcome my anxiety and led me to be more comfortable with speaking in front of larger groups. I no longer tremble at the thought of voicing my opinion or presenting to a live audience. I can now present my opinions confidently and sound at ease and this has really helped me

During my speeches I had to really focus on presenting and staying on track with both my topic and my actions and tone and this helped me learn how to program my mind to not wander. I was able to make sure my thoughts were aligned with what I was doing.

I really enjoyed this workshop, and I think if I listed everything it taught me it would be roughly around 1000 words. I am so glad I decided to take it. It not only helped me as a speaker, but it gave me beneficial skills that I will use throughout my life.

Reha G.

I honestly enjoyed performing the speeches; even though I was nervous, I pushed through and kept trying.

Public speaking is an art form, and I’ve realized that the only way to get better is through consistent practice. Overall, these skills will continue to help me in the future, in my career, and in everyday life.

Tyche M.

I grew up in Guatemala and learned English and Spanish at the same time, which means the grammar and sentence structure of both languages has merged. I detested the grammar and spelling aspect of English in middle school. And because of all of this added to being homeschooled and introverted I never liked putting myself out in front of people. And even communicating on a regular basis has been uncomfortable.

Through these workshops, I have gotten better at communicating. Trying to communicate more has opened a new world which I'm excited to keep stepping into. Communication has been a vital skill I've had to practice to survive. 

Emma R.

Hi Professor Russell,

I just wanted to reach out and share that I was selected as the first-place winner in the Judith Stark Creative Writing Competition (nonfiction category). I really appreciate the level of feedback you've given on my writing throughout this course. It's pushed me to think more critically about my work and dig deeper, especially in how I approach reflection and structure.

This is my first time having a piece recognized at this level, so it meant a lot! I'm looking forward to continuing to refine my writing.

Best,
Anastasia B.