Finding Your Voice: Why Emerging Eagle Leaders Is Worth It

If you’ve ever thought, “I could never get up and speak in front of people,” you’re not alone—and that’s exactly why you should consider applying for Emerging Eagle Leaders.

At the program’s final guest workshop this year, students had the opportunity to learn from Gabby Kreis, who shared a refreshingly honest take on public speaking: even people who are good at it still get nervous. That’s kind of the point.

Confidence Isn’t the Absence of Nerves

Kreis told a story about being asked to speak at her own college commencement—something that sounds exciting until you realize it also meant standing in front of a massive crowd. The morning of, she was so nervous she had goosebumps and anxiety just getting ready but she did it anyway.

That’s one of the biggest takeaways from Emerging Eagle Leaders: growth doesn’t come from being comfortable. It comes from showing up anyway.

Public Speaking Is a Skill—Not a Personality Trait

One of the most valuable things shared in this session was that public speaking isn’t something you’re just “born with.” It’s something you build.

Gabby emphasized a few key principles:

• Know your audience—who they are and what they care about
• Practice with purpose—not just repetition, but intentional improvement
• Get comfortable being uncomfortable—that’s where growth happens
• Prepare ahead—because confidence comes from knowing your material

Her dad’s advice summed it up perfectly: “Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance.”

Nobody Is Waiting for You to Fail

One of the most reassuring things shared during the workshop was this:
The audience is not against you.

In fact, if someone invited you to speak, it’s because they want to hear from you. Most people in the audience aren’t judging—they’re relating. They’ve been nervous before too.

And honestly? Most people won’t remember every word you say.
They’ll remember how you made them feel.

Growth Happens in Small Moments

Emerging Eagle Leaders isn’t just about big speeches or major events. It’s about small, consistent growth:

• Learning how to introduce yourself with confidence
• Figuring out how to read a room
• Getting better at communicating your ideas
• Understanding your own strengths

Even something as simple as learning how to pronounce someone’s name correctly or adjusting how you address a crowd can make a difference.

Why You Should Apply

Only seven students were present at this final workshop, which makes one thing clear: this is a small, focused program where you actually get hands-on experience and real mentorship—not just lectures.

And it builds toward something meaningful. Students will share their personal legacy statements at a luncheon with Jodi Kupper, giving them a chance to reflect on how much they’ve grown.

If you’re even slightly curious about leadership, communication, or pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone, this program is worth it.

Final Thought

You don’t have to be the most confident person in the room to start.

You just have to be willing to try.

Because the truth is—confidence isn’t something you wait for.
It’s something you build.

Learn more at: https://www.csc.edu/oas/emergingeagleleaders/