Speaking with Impact: Interns Elevate Their Presentation Skills with Gillie Haynes

In the realm of medical and public health professions, the ability to communicate effectively can be a game-changer. Recently, the interns of the Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship had the exceptional chance to refine their public speaking skills with Gillie Haynes, an acclaimed communications expert, professor, author, and former journalist. Her dynamic workshop offered the interns invaluable tools to present their ideas with confidence and clarity.

Gillie Haynes, known for her extensive experience in journalism, public relations, and education, brought a wealth of knowledge to the session. As an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Communications at American University and a former Public Relations Manager for a national program within the Department of Homeland Security, Gillie has shaped effective communication strategies across various platforms. Her role as the Public Affairs Director at KBLX/KRE Radio and her business development experience with EDS further highlight her deep understanding of impactful communication.

The workshop began with Gillie introducing the fundamentals of public speaking. She emphasized the significance of thorough preparation, understanding your audience, and structuring a compelling speech. 

Drawing from her rich career, Gillie shared anecdotes that infused the session with both humor and practical insights. She recounted her experiences conducting public speaking workshops in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, illustrating how effective communication transcends cultural boundaries.

Gillie then introduced advanced public speaking techniques, focusing on elements such as body language, vocal variety, and the strategic use of visual aids. She demonstrated how these techniques can transform a presentation, making it more engaging and memorable for the audience.

A particularly memorable aspect of the workshop was Gillie’s approach to overcoming the nerves associated with public speaking. She encouraged the interns to view public speaking as an exciting opportunity to share their passion and expertise. “Public speaking is not a hurdle; it’s a platform to showcase your ideas and connect with others,” she said.

The session culminated in the interns practicing their introductions, applying the tips and techniques they had learned. Gillie provided personalized feedback, offering constructive advice that highlighted their strengths and identified areas for improvement.

By the end of the workshop, the interns were not only more confident in their public speaking abilities but also inspired to embrace this vital skill with enthusiasm. Gillie’s engaging teaching style and profound expertise left a lasting impact, equipping the interns with the confidence and clarity needed to excel in their future presentations.

In summary, Gillie Haynes’ public speaking workshop was a transformative experience for the Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship interns. The skills they acquired will be crucial as they advance in their careers, allowing them to deliver presentations with confidence and make a meaningful impact in their field.