This course is an interactive learning space in which students develop the competencies required
for impactful presence and effective communication in academic and professional life.
Students will learn simple practices for working with anxiety, stress, overwhelm, and other
obstacles that may arise, while also developing a sense of confidence in their ideas and their
ability to communicate those clearly. Students will explore the significance of oral tradition
across various cultures, and learn how to cultivate an authentic approach to leadership through
the communication skill sets of active listening, storytelling, facilitation, motivation, and
information sharing. Students have an opportunity to reflect upon their own lived experience,
values, and passions, as they continue to develop their presence and voice as an emerging leader.
Students come away from this course with more capacity to express themselves effectively and
persuasively, as well as the skills to leverage slide decks to support presentations. We will also
build a strong classroom community in which students establish relationships of mutual support
and collaborative learning that will be beneficial in their time at UC Berkeley and beyond. show less