Glossophobia is the scientific term for fear of public speaking. Derived from the Greek word “glossa” or tongue, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 75% of people list public speaking as their number one fear, with some listing it as scarier than “death itself.” 
In the pandemic’s wake, our students’ mental health and well-being are a focus of many support systems in the Student Success division. We want to share one of our newest units, the Presentation Center.
The Presentation Center’s mission is to enhance communication skills and offer helpful advice for students enrolled in COM 115, the general education public speaking course. We provide one-on-one consultations and small group workshops with peer consultants and communication professionals.
Communicating ideas clearly and effectively to an audience leads to success in your classes and your chosen career. Therefore, public speaking and writing skills are essential for career development.
Our Services
At the Presentation Center, you will spend an hour working with one of our trained consultants to tailor your message and delivery while boosting your confidence.
Peer consultants can assist you with the following:
- Topic selection and brainstorming
- Content development
- Organizing ideas
- Outlines and notecard preparation
- Evaluation of presentation aids
- Presentation effectiveness and delivery (verbal and nonverbal)
- General oral communication skills
- Managing speaking anxiety & developing confidence
- Citing research orally
- Audience analysis
The Consultants
Our consultants are Communication majors trained to assist students with COM 115. They are available by appointment only. Appointments can be made up to seven days in advance.
Consultants can assist you by acting as a sounding board for ideas or by helping you prepare speaker notes and visual aids. You can also rehearse your presentation and receive feedback on the content, along with your vocal and nonverbal delivery.
Making an Appointment
Schedule an appointment online or call us at (417) 836-6398. You’ll get up to an hour with a consultant.
Select a date in advance of your presentation so you have the time to incorporate the feedback from your consultant and schedule a follow-up session if necessary.
Dealing with Stage Fright & Public Speaking Anxiety
A consultation in the Presentation Center will help make you feel more confident, but if you feel highly anxious or fearful of speaking in front of others and want help from a professional, work with your faculty member or visit Missouri State University’s Counseling Center. For information about the Center, visit https://counselingcenter.missouristate.edu/.
Questions? Contact Michael Frizell, M.F.A., Director of Student Learning Services, at michaelfrizell@missouristate.edu or (417) 836-5006.