Expertise:
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Research. I have a strong research background, especially in topics relating to biotechnology innovation and health. If you have an Info or OO topic that you want to explore, I can help you learn how to research the topic in such a way that you have the most cutting-edge information on it.
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Writing. As someone with several peer-reviewed journal publications, I will be able to help you create a refined, well-structured draft.
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Technical Speaking Skills. After years of competing at the college level and coaching, I have honed in on specific skills and attributes needed to perform and stand out. So much of public speaking is not about the words on the page; it’s about how you say them. I’ll be able to pinpoint those subtle, nuanced ways that we communicate non-verbally and with our inflection, pacing, intonation, and pausing.
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Structured Practice. I’ll share ways to maximize your practice time. This means systematically creating priorities together and honing in on weaker spots in performance. We are all so busy! So we need to use practice time effectively and efficiently. Ensuring that we have clear priorities when practicing can help us do this.
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Having Fun. When you coach with me, I want us to be focused and goal-driven, of course, but I also want us to find joy in the activity! Having an outlet to express your passions and interests is a gift, and if you coach with me we’ll treat it like one!
Dani Pacia Info, OO, POI
Short Bio:
Hi there! My name is Danielle (Dani) Pacia, a graduate of Harvard University (Master’s Degree) and The University of Alabama (Bachelor’s Degree), and I will be enrolling in Yale Law School in the fall of 2025. I am excited to get back to speech and debate after a break to attend graduate school and start my career in health policy research. I’m thrilled to combine my research skills with my speech and debate experience built over nearly a decade of competing. I have experience coaching a number of events, including Info and OO, for students at varying skill levels. I am excited to coach whoever you are, whether you are a seasoned speech and debater or someone who is new to the activity.
Competing for The University of Alabama, I was a three-time finalist at the AFA-NST Collegiate National Competition and two-time semi-finalist. As a high school competitor finaled and/or semi-finaled at tournaments such as the Kentucky TOC, Harvard, Emory Barkley Forum, and Glenbrooks national tournaments.
Coaching Philosophy:
In an increasingly polarized society full of misinformation, I’m passionate about the art of communication. I approach coaching with a steady, nuanced hand, ensuring we develop a performance students can be proud of for years to come. I truly think students can achieve any goal they set for themselves if they are committed to mentoring and hard work. I believe in the power of accountability; if we set a goal together, I expect you to put in the hours to achieve it. I’ll be there to both push you and cheer you on.