If you’re afraid of public speaking, you’re not alone. Generally, three out of every four people find the experience intimidating.
But facing that fear comes with benefits, as Natali Cerda discovered when she signed up for the Grand Debate student competition at Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) — the initial round at her college in a statewide contest where multiple institutions in the Florida College System compete for the title of Grand Debate Champion and a $1,200 cash prize. During the eight-minute initial round at EFSC, pairs of students alternate in providing a 2-minute opening statement, followed by rounds of rebuttals.
Natali, a Florida native of Hispanic descent, took the “disagree” side on the debate’s topic: “Should social media be banned for minors?” Her points emphasized how social media connects young people with the world, broadening their perspective.
“When we travel, we often expect things to be like home,” she said. “Social media helps create a global view of the world that’s necessary for day-to-day life — in the workplace, in school, at the grocery store, everywhere.”
For Natali, the topic “hit close to home.” While raising her younger sister, she has also been pursuing an A.S. in Early Childhood Education at EFSC. Eventually, she plans on teaching 1st – 3rd graders at a school in Melbourne.
“I want to be helpful to the next generation — my sister’s generation — and even the generations to come after that. I plan to eventually go to Florida International University for my bachelor’s and would love to start a nonprofit focused on community,” she said. “When the debate came around, I wanted to use information from my degree and personal experience to make something nice and meaningful.”
The Power of a Supportive Network
Her passion and effort paid off. Natali won the EFSC Grand Debate competition — and she credits her coaches and cheerleaders at EFSC for the victory. Faculty members Josh Humphries and Christie McBride, as well as Service Learning and Civic Engagement Director Dr. Erin Baird lead and facilitate EFSC’s participation in the Grand Debate. They also represent the College as members of a Steering Committee with faculty from other institutions.
“The Grand Debate is a great opportunity for students to gain experience in public speaking, critical thinking, and research,” commented Humphries. “The whole time, students are supported by EFSC faculty coaches in a friendly environment.”
In addition to guidance from her coaches, Natali credits the TRiO Department for helping her overcome “shy” and “reclusive” barriers.
“Whatever the gaps are in in the student’s life, TRiO will try to fill it, and they’re passionate educators, like I hope to be one day,” Natali said. “I was in the office the day of the debate with Denise Chatoor-Harris, and she was helping me condense my statement. TRiO was there to celebrate with me the next day, too.”
Keeping Calm under Pressure
But her performance was far from nerves-free. One hour before the debate, Natali battled with intense anxiety. Fortunately, calling on her support system helped her refocus.
“It was one of my first times public speaking,” she said. “I started crying and was out of breath, very upset. I called my family to talk through it. It helped me realize I wasn’t powerless, and this was something I could fix. They helped me calm down.”
Additionally, Natali, who is also a student worker at the Palm Bay gym, saw a coworker and a frequent gym-goer in the audience.
“They showed up for me,” she said. “I thought I would get nervous if there was someone I knew in the audience, but it was so nice to have that kind of support.”
For Natali, that is one of the Grand Debate’s most meaningful aspects: expressing your beliefs while feeling safe and supported.
“When I first got involved with EFSC, I was shy and afraid to connect with my peers because I feared rejection — as I think a lot of students do,” she explained. “Respect is often involved in debates, so I wasn’t worried about just being myself. Knowing that atmosphere of respect is there made me feel more confident to give it my all. You can’t do that everywhere, you know?”
The Next Step
Natali will continue the competition at Saint Petersburg College, where she will be going up against other state colleges for the title of Grand Debate Champion. To prepare, Natali is carefully studying videos of previous debate champions. She is excited to soon have a video of her own debate available on YouTube.
To future students wishing to follow in her footsteps or pursue opportunities like the Grand Debate, Natali shares this advice:
“Balance, balance, balance! When you’re scared, oftentimes it’s for a reason. Listen to that but, most of all, try not to let it consume you. Take that information and use it to help you and better you. Fear is often just to keep us safe, alert, and focused. Controlling your emotions is something you must practice, just like anything else. Practice makes perfect. I would encourage you when you fall, just to get back up. That’s the hardest part. That’s where winners are made — in those moments.”
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