I believe my social and public speaking skills have definitely improved during my first semester of college. It was not like they were bad before, but I was more on the shy and quiet side back in high school. I have never liked public speaking and will always let someone else speak before me. However, because of the numerous opportunities Ohio State has given to earn summer internships and co-ops, such as the Engineering Expo back in the fall, I have had the privilege to talk and connect with new people as well as prepare for many interviews. These opportunities have increased my confidence so that I can present myself in a well-mannered and sophisticated way. Also, I have attended many various meetings and volunteering events where I interacted with all different kinds of people who shared a common goal.

Additionally, I have met so many new people in my classes here at Ohio State. With lectures that hold more than 400 people, it can be hard to find a friend that you can sit with and struggle through the class together. It is even harder for me since I am a commuter, so I cannot make friends easily and stick with them like people who live in dorms. Fortunately, I found amazing people to study and laugh in our difficult classes. I believe I got really lucky because I came with the mindset that because I am commuter, I will not be able to make many friends since I won’t get to spend time with them outside of classes. However, this was not the case. I have stayed over at my one of my friend’s dorm and ate dinner with other new people I’ve met. I also study a lot with the new friends I’ve made. Studying in groups has always helped me succeeded in academics, and meeting with students who share majors and interests can really inspire thinking and motivation among all of us.

I believe these experiences in college has shown growth and development with my social and public speaking skills, and I only hope that it continues to get better and develop throughout the next 3 or more years of my college experience.