“We always want to be able to share ourselves and our stories to the world,” said public speaking teacher Mr. John Moss.

Public speaking is an elective class that teaches students to communicate better and to present themselves to others with confidence.

Moss believes “public speaking is a class that all students can benefit from taking for whatever they want to pursue in their life.”

The class teaches students how to be themselves when speaking in public and when just having a conversation. Practice can help alleviate the anxiety that can come with speaking in public. Moss encourages students to focus on the preparation and grades for the class aren’t based solely on how you do when you present.

“The grade isnt on how you do, it’s about the prep work,” said sophomore Caitlynn Strader. The work you put in and how you prepare yourself for your speech. On whether you are tired and put in the work or not.”

Moss reminds students to respect the audience, be aware of your emotions, and own the message you want to deliver.

“It’s a really great way to build confidence and lessen your anxiety,” said Strader.

So rather than avoiding speaking in public if you fear it, maybe you should consider signing up for public speaking class next year.