Amber Diaz
By Amber Diaz, Guest Commentary -- diaz11@up.edu
We've all had that dream: you're standing in front of a large group of people in nothing but our underwear and so terrified you're unable to utter a single word. It's a universal dream for pretty understandable reasons, 75 percent of all Americans report a fear of public speaking.
Here on campus we have a group of people determined to not develop this fear or determined to overcome it. We are the University of Portland Speech and Debate Union and our goal is not just to be comfortable with public speaking but to excel at it.
Now, I'm not saying that it's always easy, we all have our instances of cold feet or butterflies. Some of us prefer the speech part of speech and debate where we get to prepare and practice our speech ahead of time. Then there are those who prefer debate, me included, where the thrill comes from getting a topic only thirty minutes before the round. Either way there's a place for everyone's preferences on the Speech and Debate Team.
The unique thing about our team is the diversity of our ranks. Although the club is by the communications department the variety of our members is great. We have communications, political science, business, engineering, sociology, nursing students and more. We have people who are passionate about media bias, environmental issues, politics, and the military.
One of the best parts of being a member of this team is that it makes you think outside the box. Going into a debate round it's impossible to know what side of an issue you might have to argue. I've found myself having to support nuclear war, to argue for the impeachment of presidents, and argue against the existence of climate change. Looking at issues from all sides gives a much deeper perspective and outlook on everything around us.
But beyond having great coaches, a great executive board, great members, and tons of fun there is still a greater benefit to the Speech and Debate Union: the universal need for the skills it teaches. All of us here at UP have bright futures to look forward to. While we will continue on to varied careers we all share the need to communicate our ideas others persuasively and professionally. For people like teachers and lawyers this need is obvious. But people often overlook the nurses who have to communicate complicated health issues to families, or scientists who will have to present their findings to large groups of people. We all need these skills in order to be successful and productive. If for no other reason than this, the Speech and Debate Union is an under-utilized asset to the University of Portland and its students.
So fellow students, now is the time to conquer your fears. Now is the time to reap the rewards that come from stepping outside your comfort zone. Not only will you have unforgettable experiences with some great people, you will profoundly contribute to your success in whatever field you should choose to pursue. So come join us in Shiley 101 on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:40 p.m.
