I love Professor Pentz so much. She is a lively soul to have around and I really enjoyed taking this class. I had to push myself to take it and I'm so glad that I did. This class teaches you to be more confident in yourself and how to conduct yourself in a business setting. I would def recommend it just for fun and learning valuable lessons.
Great course! The class is often times very challenging but you will learn a lot. Speaking assignments each week (e.g. speak about your personal history, improv speeches, shakespeare soliloquy/monologue, motivational speeches, on-camera speech, business presentation, press conference, comedy routines. The class is great fun and a safe place to practice public speaking in a supporting environment. Would totally recommend taking the class if possible!
Hands down, definitely the best class I've taken at UVa. Professor Pentz is amazing and her motto for the class is, 'whatever happens: unconditional support!'. You will have to prepare speeches at home but in general the workload is ok. I can definitely recommend this class for all 4th years that want to improve their speaking skills!
This is the best class I've ever taken at UVa. I forced myself to take this because I knew it would be a valuable experience for me. You have to memorize speeches and write your own as well. The class is a wonderful support system and it's a safe space where everyone feels comfortable. Beware that your first assignment is to sing in front of the class (18-20 people). Professor Pentz is also extremely encouraging and helpful. The memorizing and occasional small amounts of reading is the typical amount of work. You also have to write memos on 2 speeches you attend during the semester. In the fall we went to the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton and saw a wonderful modern version of Romeo and Juliet. I highly recommend this class to anyone! It's open to all 4th years!
