When was the last time you had to speak in front of a group?  How did you feel?

The last time I had to speak in front of a group was in my third year of college (back when I was still going full time). I had to do a presentation in my Operating Systems class about network security. Like firewalls and intrusion detection, things like that.

I hate, Hate, HATE public speaking. I’m a generally shy individual face to face, and as such, I really dislike getting up in front of a group to talk. This time was no different. But for some reason once I launch into the talk, I’m fine. It’s just the anticipation that really gets to me, if that makes any sense at all. I dread actually going up there, but once I’m there, I’m fine. Aside from my really bad habit to say “um” a lot.