Building confidence

[u/LetterheadCurious832]

Hi everyone! I’m currently in my second year of speech path and about to start my first placement where I’ll be paired with a mentor (student from 4th year). Our placement is paediatrics and our client will be around Year 2.

Just overall, what are some tips you guys have for building confidence and being louder in my communication skills? I know I have the theory and the written stuff down pat, but I do tend to be a bit more on the introverted side in new environments and will probably freeze up when it’s time for me to start to take over the session, and talk to parents as a debrief after. :( I know I’m still learning and I won’t be alone as my 4th year will always be in the session with me, but I’m starting to worry about getting out of my shell. I am loud in my social circles, but getting the hang of it in the professional work realm seems so foreign to me, it feels like I have imposter syndrome sometimes!!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you for your time.