As seen in the spring 2024 Ivy magazine.
Joseph Byrne, a senior in marketing, is one of many students who benefit from the services available at the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business Writing and Speaking Center.
“Their staff have helped me by providing creative brainstorming sessions, fine-tuning my presentations, and helping me practice role-play for sales calls,” he said. “The Writing and Speaking Center staff have a diverse set of skills that provides guidance to any project. They are some of the kindest and most genuine staffers on campus. I always felt heard. I leave with a smile whenever I exit their doors.”
The Writing and Speaking Center, a free service to all business students, is available year-round to help students become more confident and competent business communicators. This service offers students one-on-one and group feedback on communication-based coursework, including written papers, memos, projects, presentations, and more. They also serve non-native English speakers by helping with English language development, grammar, vocabulary, conversation, and other language-related skills.
“A simple hour meeting can help alleviate nervousness and improve your skills and confidence. I would encourage every Ivy student to consider utilizing this amazing resource.”
— Morgan Johnston (’23 marketing and supply chain management)
“Our specialty is business communication and all the nuances that come with it,” said Jamie Sass, director of the center. “Throughout the college, our goal is to strengthen student communication skills and enhance critical thinking by offering opportunities to practice those crucial skills throughout their academic career.”
As an international student, Hui Zhang started practicing her English with the staff at the Writing and Speaking Center.
“The service I got was so professional and applicable to me, so I kept making appointments every week,” she said. “Now, I am a third-year PhD student. I get more help with my research. I get help on every presentation, paper writing, and stimuli design for my research every week. I feel more and more confident in my research every week. Thanks to the epic help from the center staff.”
That’s the goal for staff at the center.
“We’re here to help students with whatever part of the process they’re currently at,” said Lea Johannsen, assistant director. “That can look like brainstorming, helping them overcome writer’s block, or looking over a finished paper just to confirm it makes sense. We won’t judge an unfinished project or a nervous presenter. Instead, we’ll be there with professional advice and friendly support.”
The Writing and Speaking Center has emerged as a pivotal asset for Ahnna Ju, an MBA student.
“Professional advisors Jamie and Lea and graduate assistants demonstrate a profound understanding of assignment intricacies and task requirements. Leveraging their extensive experience across various academic levels, including undergraduates and PhD candidates, they provide tailored support that effectively addresses individualized needs.”
A distinctive aspect of the center lies in its formal collaborations with numerous classes at Ivy, Ju said. “This unique approach provides a holistic perspective on applying communication skills across diverse academic disciplines.”
Personalized service
Our professional staff is available to help business students in many ways:
- Personalized coaching for individuals and teams to improve business communication skills.
- Developing English grammar, vocabulary, and syntax for non-native English speakers.
- Consulting on content, writing style, document design, and grammar.
- Creating storyboard presentations to make engaging data visualization with PowerPoint.
- Individualized public speaking feedback for delivery, content, and visuals.
- Assistance with job application materials for graduate students seeking academic positions.
Connect with the Writing and Speaking Center staff to learn more: Jamie Sass, Lea Johannsen.
July 1, 2024
