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..
Toastmasters give speeches to attain different statuses/ levels. I completed 10 different speeches in a basic speech manual, so the award I have is “competent communicator.” I’m now working on getting an Advanced Toastmaster Bronze award– which means another 10 speeches, but this time the speeches have to be specialized (humorous speaking, storytelling, etc).
As a Toastmaster, I also enjoy participating 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).