Zach Fuller '21, business administration, is the president of USI Speaking Eagles Toastmasters. The student chapter of Toastmasters at USI is open to all majors, and is a great place to practice public speaking in a supportive environment. Communication is one of the top skills that employers are looking for! The Spring 2021 semester meetings will be held via Zoom every Tuesday at 4:30 p.m.
We interviewed Zach about his experience as a USI Romain College student and being involved with a student organization.
What makes USI and the Romain College of Business special to you?
USI has the small college feel with some of the opportunities of a larger school. I love the hometown feel the campus has, and it's a beautiful place to walk around. The professors are great in Romain College and they get to know you.
What are some of your favorite classes at Romain College and why?
Marketing classes are the most enjoyable, they give you an insight on the advertisements you see in everyday life.
Why did you choose your current major and minor?
I was originally a Biology major and after trying that for a few years I realized that wasn't my strong suit. I then chose Business Administration as my major because I thought I'd enjoy it, and the major offers a wide range of classes, which leads to a well-rounded education. Business Administration also makes it easy to add minors. I specifically chose my minors (marketing and management) to meet my interests in business as well as improve my management skills to use in a professional career.
What has surprised you about college?
College is not as bad as high school teachers make it out to be. It was made out to be hard, but in reality it's not that much worse in high school if you do the work.
What are some of your favorite spots on campus and why?
Sub Connection is a great place to relax and get some food. Redwood Lounge is another great place to relax in between classes if you have any classes in that building.
What advice do you have for incoming freshmen? What do you wish you had known?
Do not take 8 a.m. classes, you will realize that is early for college students. If you have any papers that you struggle with, use the Writer's Lab! They offer great help when you're stuck or need someone to proofread.
Do you have a strategy for staying focused when the demands of school, work, etc. seem overwhelming?
Take your time, work ahead if you know you'll be busy later. If you feel stressed, take some time off to enjoy yourself.
As your organization’s president, what are some things you hope to achieve?
I want to grow our club back to the level it was right when I joined. We used to have good attendance and then seniors graduated and Covid came.
What made you decide to pursue being an officer of your organization?
I first joined as a Vice President of Public Relations to give me some practical experience with my minor in marketing. I also wanted to add something noteworthy to my resume.
Tell us more about your student organization and why USI students should get involved with it!
Toastmasters is a fantastic way to improve your speaking skills. We offer a relaxed, supportive environment in which to improve your skills. You don't have to speak if you're not comfortable speaking at first. Toastmasters also looks great on your resume to potential employers.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself in a professional position in the amusement industry hopefully in management or marketing position.
Published February 1, 2021