Public Speaking Tips: My First Session at Delhi University
Hey everyone! I hope you are doing great. I am Mihir Arora, and I am back with some gyaan ki baatein with you. If you don’t know me, I just want to tell you that I used to be one of the most introverted guy you could ever meet.
And Public speaking was something I had never done before, and had ever imagined doing. As a creator, I’m usually behind the camera, rather than facing real people.
However, last year in May 2025, I just got a mail for my first-ever opportunity to speak on stage. Yes, I was invited to speak at Delhi University’s (DRC College) to give a speech in front of over 80 students.
I felt excited, but deep down, I was nervous.
And the main reason for my nervousness was that I had never done anything like this before. Even in my college days, I often avoided events where I had to speak in front of an audience.
I never thought I would actually do this. But now, it was to fight for myself.
Breaking My Comfort Zone
At first, I didn’t know if I could really do it. Because I was creating content at that time, but I was still not confident in talking to real people or giving a speech in front of a group of people.
I kept thinking to myself, Will I be able to speak confidently? What if I forget something? What if my English isn’t good enough? What if the audience doesn’t listen to me?
Just overthinking with multiple self-doubt questions. But then I realized something.
If I want to grow as a creator or as a personal brand, I have no option but to step out of my comfort zone. So I decided to just go for it. I still remember I had about 20 days to prepare myself for this, and I made myself a promise.
I’ll give this talk in full English, no matter how uncomfortable it feels.
How I Practiced Public Speaking for It?
I didn’t join any coaching or take any fancy classes. Instead, I practiced with simple and free online tools that anyone can use.
- Talking to Random People Online:
I started using platforms like Free4Talk and Episoden, where you can talk live with strangers from around the world for free.
It helped me feel more comfortable speaking English, even when I messed up. This can help you when you don’t have anyone to speak or practice with. - Talking to Myself in Front of a Mirror:
Every day, I practiced my topic in front of a mirror. It helped me improve my body language, hand movements, and speaking style. - Writing My Thoughts in English:
I wrote a short summary of my talk and broke it into simple bullet points. Instead of memorizing every line, I focused on the flow and the key ideas I wanted to share. - Trying to think in English:
I feel this point is really important. Until you start thinking your tho English, you won’t be able to be fluent and specific on stage.
The Big Day!!
Finally, the big day was here.
I walked into the auditorium and saw more than 80 students waiting. My hands were cold, and my heart was racing. I took a deep breath, smiled, and began to speak.
The first few seconds were tough, especially during my introduction. However, once I began my speech, sharing my story and the lessons I had learned, it started to feel natural.
By the end, students were clapping, asking questions, and even coming up to talk to me afterward. It felt amazing. It gave me a big confidence boost, not just as a speaker, but also as a creator and as a person.
What I Learned (and You Can Too)
That session taught me a lot. Not just about public speaking, but also about confidence, English, and growing as a person.
Here are a few lessons I’d love to share:
- Start Small, Speak Often:
You don’t need a big stage. Start by talking to your friends, or join free platforms like Free4Talk.
The more you speak, the more fluent you become. - Stop Being Scared of Mistakes:
Everyone makes mistakes, even fluent speakers. Focus on communication and making people understand your point, not perfection. - Prepare Pointers, Not Paragraphs:
Don’t memorize every word. Just write down your key points, and your talk will sound more natural. - Think in English:
Try saying your daily routine in English, like, “I’m making coffee” or “I need to check my phone.” This helps your brain get used to thinking in English. - Confidence Comes from Doing:
You can’t wait to feel ready. You get ready by doing it repeatedly.
Conclusion
That one and my first public speaking session at the University of Delhi changed everything for me. It showed me that you only grow when you do things that scare you.
If you feel nervous about public speaking or giving a presentation, trust me, I’ve been there too. All you need is the courage to start and the consistency to keep going.
Because confidence isn’t built in a single day. It’s built every time you decide to step out of your comfort zone. In the end, I just want to say don’t miss out on the opportunities you get. You never know if they’ll come again.
Mihir Arora
Signing off
