Learning to Speak Up
I am not exaggerating when I say that this week could potentially be one of the busiest weeks of my life. So far, I have written an essay for Mass Media, run a total of seven miles, read 100 pages for my writing class, and prepared a speech for my debate in Foundations of Education...and it's only TUESDAY! I still have to study for a test that I have on Friday, write and rehearse a speech for my speech class, prepare for my student-teaching lesson, and run 14 more miles. Needless to say, this week is going to be a little crazy. I can't wait for Thursday because my mom is coming to visit me! I told her that we will have to go out to eat at the Bonefish Grill (my favorite restaurant) on Friday night so that I can relax after being so busy all week.
One thing that I have noticed about my classes this semester, is that almost every one of them emphasizes participation and discussion. When I first came to this realization I began to feel somewhat stressed. I have always been a little shy and reserved, so learning how to feel comfortable speaking in front of others on a regular basis has been slightly challenging. I know that the only way to build my confidence and reduce my nerves is by taking the initiative to speak up in class, and that is exactly what I plan to do. (Two speeches in one week gives me a pretty good head start on this, don't you think?)
Last weekend I went to the Rock Showcase and it was, as Ben would say, "rock awesome." The four bands that played were Lorien, Nova Ray, Kennedy, and Hunted by Angels. Each band had a really unique style; I think my personal favorite was Nova Ray because they had two trumpet players, a saxophone player, and a trombone player in addition to a guitarist and drummer...it was pretty cool. 
All of the bands did really well, but Lorien ended up winning the showcase.
Well, I'm off to get started on my next speech, wish me luck!
