Student Speakers Bureau

Do you want to be in the spotlight?

Are you comfortable in front of large groups?

Are you ready to speak in public?

....If the answer is no, join the USC Student Speakers Bureau!

Q: What is the Student Speakers Bureau?
A: Public speaking is a skill which is often not included in formal curricula, but is an important part of personal and professional development for students of all majors.

The Student Speakers Bureau is a free 5-week seminar designed to give students the opportunity to develop their speaking skills. Members of the Bureau choose an academic topic of general interest and learn to present one polished 10-minute talk on that topic. Members will meet once a week with a faculty leader to develop and fine-tune their speaking skills. The Bureau culminates in a formal dinner at the University Club, where members will deliver their talks in front of students and guests.

Q: What are the dates of the class?
A: There will be two sections of the Student Speakers Bureau. One will take place on Tuesday evenings, 6-7:30 p.m., from February 12 through March 11 at THH214 (Taper Hall of Humanities). The other will take place on Wednesday evenings, 6-7:30 p.m., from February 13 through March 12 at THH214. You may sign up for ONE section. The culminating dinner and speech presentation will be held at Upstairs Commons on Tuesday, March 25 at 6 pm.

Q: How do I apply?
A: Download and fill out the application form. You may email your completed application to ugp@usc.edu (Please reference “Student Speakers Bureau” in the subject line), or you may print out a hard copy and drop it off in GFS 227. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 7. You will be notified via email of your acceptance on Friday, February 8.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Enrollment in the Student Speakers Bureau is FREE!

Q: Is the Bureau a program that will help me learn or practice English?
A: The Student Speakers Bureau is not intended for students who are in the process of learning English as a second language. English proficiency is required for all students enrolling in the course.

Q: I’m a graduate student. Can I still participate?
A: Unfortunately, this program is exclusively for undergraduate students.

Q: I will have to miss one of the class sessions because of a prior commitment. Does this mean I can’t participate?
A: In most cases, no. Speak to your instructor at the first class meeting, and ordinarily you can arrange to make up whatever instruction you may have missed.

Download Student Speakers Bureau Application (Word)