Content
Radio presenter receives warm reception from students
Respected ABC Coast FM radio presenter Cam Young has added another string to his public speaking bow by delivering his first lecture at the University of the Sunshine Coast this week.
Mr Young, who admitted to being slightly nervous beforehand, gave a presentation with HOT 91 FM sales manager Paula Kerr on the topic of public speaking on Tuesday 3 April.
The duo was among an impressive line-up of inspirational Sunshine Coast businesspeople who have happily imparted their knowledge to USC business students during the past six weeks.
Their presentation was part of four lecture series – on the topics of Teamwork for the Workplace, Public Speaking, Career Planning and Maximising Your Influence – organised by the Faculty of Business to give students an edge in understanding the business world and in finding employment.
Other guest speakers included Sunshine Coast Business Academy principal Leigh Rachow, Reed Property Group Human Resources manager Laura Fox, Changeworks team facilitator Clare Edwards, author and businessman Barry Bull, Global Communications sponsorship consultant Dr Simon T Hay, business consultant Dr Lesley Willcoxson, former Queensland Deputy Premier Joan Sheldon, Sunshine Coast 2006 Businesswoman of the Year Debra Robinson, psychologist Todd Zemek, Maroochy Shire Council manager Brendan Hogan and Clive May of Career Connection.
Organiser Melissa Sheridan said about 50 students had benefited from attending the lectures.
“It opened their eyes to what the real business world is like and what businesses require of them,” she said. “To hear these real-life stories about business has an impact on the way they study.
“It has improved their confidence and given them a chance to develop their ‘soft’ skills: their communication skills, body language and etiquette.
“It is important for them to develop these personal skills at an early stage of their university degree, and for them to gain industry and networking contacts.”
Ms Sheridan said the lecture series also helped develop stronger links between the University and business leaders.
“It gives the university a better understanding of what industry representatives are looking for in employing our business graduates. It also creates a better opportunity for the business community to engage with us.”
Ms Sheridan said another lecture series program was planned for Semester 2 this year.