Angelina Rodriguez Group 1

     The chapter presentations on public speaking turned out to be one of the most helpful parts of this class. Instead of just reading the textbook and trying to picture how the skills worked, we actually saw them in real situations through our classmates. Every presentation had a new focus and a different style. This kept the class interesting and made the lessons easier to understand. It showed me that public speaking is not only about knowing information, but also about how you deliver it, how confident you appear, and how well you connect with your audience.

     I was in Group 1, and I really appreciated working with my team. Everyone had different strengths, and we did a good job supporting one another. We divided the work fairly and made sure each person knew their part. This helped lower some of the stress because no one felt like they had to do everything alone. We communicated well and tried to make sure our presentation was organized and clear. Working as a team made the whole experience feel more manageable.

   Every group covered a different area of public speaking. Some talked about controlling nervousness, while others explained how to understand your audience, organize a speech, listen actively, or use body language. Seeing these topics presented in different ways helped the ideas stick in my mind. It was easier to understand the concepts when I could watch people actually try to use them. Some groups gave simple and direct explanations, pictures, or real life examples. These different styles showed that presentations do not have to look the same to be effective. As long as the speaker is clear and engaging the message will be delivered.

    I personally felt very nervous when it was my turn to speak. I also felt a little unprepared, I understood the topic, but I did not practice as much as I should have before presenting. This caused me to feel super nervous and unprepared. I spoke faster than usual and used more filler words than I wanted to. I remember thinking that I should slow down, but it was hard to control in the moment. That experience made me realize how much preparation affects confidence. If I had practiced more ahead of time, I think I would have felt calmer and more in control while speaking. And would had overall had a better presentation.

    A big thing I noticed during most presentations was how people tried to keep the audience involved and interested in the presentation. Many students made eye contact, spoke loudly and clearly, and avoided just reading off their slides. Some presenters asked the class questions or shared stories that made the topic more interesting. When speakers looked prepared and confident, their presentations were easier to follow and more enjoyable to listen to. Even when someone was nervous, it was easy to respect the effort they were making. Public speaking is scary for many people, which is something I can personally relate to, so it was encouraging to see everyone trying their best, as it made me more comfortable.

   Of course, not every presentation was perfect, and that actually made the experience more realistic. Some students spoke very quickly because they were nervous, as well as I did, which made parts hard to understand. Others looked at their slides too much instead of facing the audience. A few presenters seemed unsure at times or used filler words, which is something I tend to do a lot as well. Instead of judging these moments, I saw them as learning experiences. They reminded me that public speaking takes practice and that mistakes are part of improving. 

   I also learned a lot from watching the other groups. Some groups used storytelling, or pictures, which made their presentations more interesting and easier to remember. Hearing personal experiences helped make the lessons feel more real as it helps connect with the presenter. Other groups focused on explaining how public speaking skills are useful in real life, like during job interviews, meetings, or everyday conversations. These examples helped me see that public speaking is not just a school skill but a daily life skill. It is something we practice on the day to day life.

    Whether it is at school or work, public speaking is something I do every day. At school when I have to read something out loud, or present a class project. Or at work helping people find the items that are right for them. I have to make sure I speak to others clearly and confidently at all times. This class has helped me understand that the way I speak, my tone, my body language, and my confidence all matter just as much as my knowledge about beauty products.

     As the semester goes on, I hope to keep improving my public speaking skills. I want to work on slowing down, and practicing more before I present so I can feel more confident on the topics. I know that confidence comes with time, effort, and being prepared. Each presentation is a chance to grow and become more comfortable speaking in front of others. 

    Overall, these chapter presentations helped me grow both as a student and as a future professional. They showed me my strengths, but they also showed me where I need to improve. Most importantly, they taught me that practice and preparation are the keys to becoming a better speaker. I know these skills will help me not only in school, but also in my career and everyday life.