Hey everyone,
I'm Evelyn Lu, and I'm super excited to be teaching the Public Speaking and Debate class this semester!
I've always loved how powerful good communication can be, and I wanted to share that with our community to help middle/high school students improve their speaking and debate skills.
We all know public speaking skills are super useful, not just in school but in everyday life too. Like a lot of us, public speaking used to intimidate me, but I was determined to overcome this. I’ve taken public speaking and debate classes for a couple of years, and I’ve seen how learning to speak and debate well can make a huge difference. It not only helps me get my point across better but also helps me overcome anxiety and boosts my confidence.
Debate skills also help me stay connected to what's happening in the world, improve critical thinking and build research skills.
I actively compete in local and statewide debate tournaments representing the Shaker High School Speech and Debate team, have won several of them, and am a state and national debate qualifier for the NSDA tournament.
In addition, Public speaking and debate skills have helped me gain leadership roles as high school student council vice president and JV tennis team captain.
Last school year, I was a teacher assistant and substitute teacher for the public speaking and debate class. This year, I will create a supportive space in class where everyone can feel comfortable speaking up and sharing their ideas.
I can't wait to get started and help you all become better speakers and leaders. Let's have a great time learning and growing together!
See you in class!
Sincerely,
Evelyn
