I’m a member of Dupont Speaks Toastmasters. I’ve been a member since October 2007, and it’s been a great opportunity not just to speak, but to analyze what makes a good speech or presentation..

My evolution in the club:

In my first years with the club, I did three things: give speeches, participate in contests and do preliminary officer roles.

• Toastmasters give speeches to attain different statuses/ levels. I completed 10 different speeches in a basic speech manual, so the award I get is “competent communicator.”
• As a Toastmaster, I also enjoy taking part in contests. In October 2008, I won my club’s Table Topics Contest (extemporaneous speaking). I went on to win the area  and division contests as well. I did the same in October 2009. I keep my trophies on the piano in my apartment. They look shiny.
• I’ve also served on the Dupont Speaks club’s officer board for two terms (Vice President of PR, and Secretary).

Then in 2011, I found perhaps my greatest love in the club– the role of Vice President, Education.

The role of VPE is simple: make sure that everyone else in the club is giving speeches, growing as a speaker and achieving their public speaking goals. Corralling 15-20 people and getting them to work on their goals, give speeches, come out of their shells and get on the roster is bracing, exciting, challenging and fun. I thrive on the excitement of seeing others grow as speakers, overcome their fear of speaking and transform from jittery-at-the-podium to polished presenters. I haven’t participated in any contests in 2011, but I’ve been thrilled to see some of the members at my club improve and thrive.