Your final assignment is to write a short 2-page paper that addresses the skills that you (hopefully) have learned in this class.  This paper does a few things:

1.  Allows you to discuss what you have learned in the class.

2.  Allows you to investigate the use of public speaking skills in your future career.  Because these skills we’ve learned can be used in both Chinese and English, it’s important that you determine which ones will be the most useful in your chosen career. 

3.  Set goals about which English/Chinese speaking skills you will continue to work on and improve throughout your university career and life.

Therefore, you must do a little bit of research.  If possible, talk to people in your ideal field, such as a boss, professor, etc., or do some Internet research, and so on.  Ask the professionals what types of public speaking situations they often find themselves in.  For example, a marketing executive might conduct Power Point presentations during department meetings once a week, or a doctor will speak to other doctors at a meeting.  Or maybe you’ll be a teacher like me!  In short, what types of specific audiences will you be interacting with?  It is also a way for you to network with people/businesses in your major – I guarantee if you call or meet with someone in your field they will love to talk about themselves or what they do.

If you are unsure of your future career, which is very normal at your age, pick your ideal career.  It’s great to have dreams!

As I have said in class over and over, communication skills are the number one attribute that employers look for.  So be the best at these skills and you will be rewarded after you graduate.  But you know it’s not easy in any language!  加油！

Guidelines

1.  This is a part of your grade so take it seriously.  I’m looking for a sincere, solid effort that uses ideas and vocabulary from the class.

2.  You should address each of the three criteria I listed at the top of this page.

3. Paper should be 2 pages in length, word font should be no bigger than size 12.

4.  Paper is due the day of the week AFTER the introduction speeches (class 4). If your paper is late I will consider accepting it and/or giving it a partial grade.