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Winner’s Attitude
Jennifer Schmidt, EH2
challenge myself.” This is preparation for those Dr. Gwendolyn Avington, Ann Kroetch, Jordan
moments in my life when I will be called on Burnett-Rainey, Kaushik Balasubramanian,
to speak in front of a group. This happened a Barbie Klein, and Charissa Yang. Also, there
lot in a past job. I didn’t seek the spotlight, it was support from several clubs including New
sought me. Eventually that on-the-spot feeling Horizons, PR Masters, Bootstrappers, Flying
prompted me to attend my first Toastmasters Toasters, Yammertime and Feedbackers.
meeting. The difference now is I’m seeking
discomfort on purpose! Nerves can make What would you tell someone who is
contests a real challenge. When I actually thinking of competing?
follow through, compete, and don’t faint, that’s Do it! I know it’s easy for me to say, right?
a win. When I practiced this year’s contest Yes, several contests are now under my belt,
speech, Training Wheels, the nerves were but in my very first contest I had a case of
predictably present. I figured out how to use non-contagious walking pneumonia. Until I
that energy in my speech and had FUN! I started giving my evaluation on stage, I wasn’t
took the audience on a bike ride with me even sure if my voice would function or if
and people said they really enjoyed it. I’d sound like a frog. I ended up doing it and
That was a big win too! WON! Now understand, I’m NOT advocating
walking pneumonia (PLEASE stay healthy),
Will you compete again? but I’ve felt pressure and have won a physical
Of course! Even though trophy. When I look at it, I’m reminded of
there’s jitters and lots of how I was challenged. But even without that
practice, the added confidence trophy, I would still feel like I won, just like I
boost is definitely worth it. do now, because I survived the experience and
Also, I wasn’t alone, I had tons did my best.
of support from Leela Seeber, If you decide to compete in your Club
Maren Zieba, Matthew contest next year, regardless of a trophy win or
Douglass, Penny Jahraus, not, you can still feel like you won. I say, “Take
Cleon Cox, Joe Harper, Bill a chance. Do your best. Discover how you’ll
Maher, Ralph Galantine, win.” Either way you will win.
VOICES! | MAY 2022 37
