My thoughts?
I believe that public speaking is very important!! You never know when you will need it.
Having said that, take the 201 Interpersonal Communication course during the day, and inquire about your local "Toastmasters" club and become an active member. I have heard WONDERFUL things about Toastmasters. A fellow coworker became an active member of Toastmasters this past year and guess what... she won 1st place in a local comedy speech contest, and two weeks ago, she went to our statewide competition where she took 2nd place.
Cool, eh?
My goal this coming year is to get involved in Toastmasters. I'm getting better at speaking in front of groups (BTW, I had to make an unanticpated award acceptance speech just last week!!!) OK, I was very surprised, but honored and flattered for the recognition - it was in front of about 200 of my fellow coworkers, so I was a little nervous, but did allright, I think... But, I could have done better.
I say you should pursue both. I think Toastmasters has a nominal membership fee, as it's a non-profit organization. Perhaps your boss will cover those costs, too?
You go, girl!
SNA (yahooo it's 80 degrees F outside today!!) in AK
