East Texas Performing Arts was privileged to present Tuesday’s workshop for a group of Marshall High School students focusing on soft skills that are needed when entering the workplace. ETPA President, Sara Whitaker, led the program, assisted by Glenn Barnhart, Executive Director of Memorial City Hall Performance Center.Students were all from the Marshall High School Jr ROTC program led by Master Sergeant Brian Cumberland.
Sara introduced topics such as, self-confidence, communication skills, facial expression, and the power of eye contact and a smile, that are crucial in any employment interview. After a brief lecture, all students were invited on stage to practice these skills in improvisational games and exercises.
Sara’s final question to the students was, “What differences did you see in your peers after this short exercise?” Student answers included we were more confident, individuals spoke louder to be heard, some displayed less fidgeting, and all were more direct.
These student participants could see these significant progressions after just a short workshop, and now can practice and improve these skills and attitudes while approaching their first job interview.
ETPA thanks Master Sergeant Brian Cumberland for bringing this group of students, Glenn Barnhart, for helping us present and for his great work as Executive Director of Memorial City Hall Performance Center, 92.3 FM The Depot for their support, and to the students who were attentive and responsive throughout the program.
For more information about East Texas Performing Arts, contact via email info@EastTexasPerformingArts.org, or call 903-634-7665.
