DRAM 1020

This was one of my favorite classes I took at UVA! If you're looking for an easy A but also for something that's fun, engaging, developmental, and worth your time, DRAM 1020 is it. As someone who usually takes big lectures, the small class size was really refreshing. I felt like I actually got to know my classmates, plus that comfortability made practicing speaking techniques and receiving criticism less intimidating. The structure of the class was a few different units: introduction, giving a pitch, interviewing (over Zoom), and narrative/storytelling. In class, we mostly played games, did technique exercises, or practiced speaking and receiving live coaching/feedback. The games and exercises made implementing things like vocal variety, active stillness, connection, and avoiding fillers feel like we weren't even public speaking, but they actually made a huge difference in our performance. At the end of each unit, we'd each give our speeches in class. (There were also a few simple assignments on Canvas. Mostly mindfulness practices or briefly reviewing your performance in class.) It's definitely a class where you get out what you put in. You're not required to put in a ton of effort, but even a few minutes of practice outside of class per week will make a world of difference not just in your speeches but also in your day-to-day interactions. I'd recommend to anybody--especially if you're not super comfortable speaking in front of others!!! This course provides a safe environment for development, and by the end, you'll come out with so much more confidence and technical ability.

Hell yeah Jenny Wales- this class is great. There's very little homework other than getting ready for your speeches, and recording short practice videos of yourself trying the speaking techniques. We do speaking activities in class where we each talk a few times per day- which sounds stressful but its literally what you signed up for. The routine practice makes a huge difference- public speaking seems like less of a big deal, and lessens your nerves. It's a low time commitment class that's good for your personal development, and with a small group of students that you get to become friends with. Plus, the class itself definitely does what its intended to under Jenny: improve your public speaking.