I want to talk about my service on the TCRA Board and how rewarding it has been for the past one and a half years.
I have to say that I am still amazed that I am on this volunteer board. It’s really not something that I ever thought I would feel comfortable doing. I am generally, by nature, a rather shy and conservative individual; hence, my court reporter profession!
I remember when I was in college going through my training, my school required that I take Speech as a class. That frightened me to death! I’m a small-town girl from rural North Dakota. Anyway, I actually set up a meeting with the dean of my school and outlined all the reasons why I shouldn’t be required to take that Speech class. The reasons I enumerated were as follows:
1. I will be the “silent” person in the courtroom.
2. If I need to read back, I just have to read what was said. I don’t have to come up with anything original.
3. I really think an internship at a law office would serve me better for after I got out of school. I’ll have interaction with attorneys.
4. Oh, by the way, I need permission to be able to take extra credit hours in order to participate in an internship.
Did I say that I waited until my last quarter to go to the dean with my pitch?
Through my service on this TCRA Board, I have met some incredible reporters/individuals. Their contribution to this organization is nothing short of amazing. Their dedication to our profession is evident in everything they do. Had I not accepted the challenge of being on this board, I know I never would have met these wonderful people.
At the time I came on the Board, I was asked what committee I would be interested in serving on. I love the technology aspects of our job, so I said I would love to work on the Web Site Committee. Then President Trish Smith gave me her wish list for our Web site, and just let me run with it. I feel because of this experience, that my technology skills have greatly improved. There was a lot of research involved in that project. I also feel that, because of Trish’s vision, the Student section of our site is a great resource for all of our reporting students as well, which translates into the satisfaction of knowing that I’m “helping” others.
That’s just a small snippet of some of the reasons why I feel volunteering is so important. I know you all give back in your own way and would love to hear about your experiences too. I’m looking forward to “Serving Together” with you in June!
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Did you have to take that speech class?
I’m glad you asked! I was successful and attained my goal of getting out of speech class. I haven’t regretted that decision once.
Lynette, I did not get out of my speech class in college and here is what happened. We were asked to pick an object in our dorm room, bring the object to class, and give a speech about it. Like you, I was rather shy, or scared to death may be a better way to phrase it, and of all things to choose, I chose a colorful octopus made out of yarn that had all eight tentacles and a round head with eyes. When I gave my speech, needless to say, all eight of those tentacles were dancing a jig!
I’d say you got lucky. Have a great day! Phyllis