A lecture hall of students watching a presenter.

Public Speaking Programs

Present your research with clarity and power

In addition to supporting writing, the Graduate Writing Lab helps graduate students develop their public speaking skills. We offer a range of clinics, workshops, practice sessions, and feedback opportunities. Students can use these resources one at a time or as a holistic program to earn the Poorvu Center Certificate for Public Communication. With an emphasis on style, storytelling, and delivery, our public speaking resources help graduate students make compelling presentations to both experts in their fields and public audiences beyond academia.

Certificate for Public Communication

  • A professional development program for GSAS students participating in Yale’s annual 3-Minute Thesis competition
  • Open to professional school students who want to prepare a 3-minute presentation of their research
  • Certificate earners develop skills in three areas: (1) designing your content, (2) receiving feedback, (3) polishing your presentation
  • Appears as a credential on GSAS diplomas
Two grad students presenting research to a large lecture hall.

Public Speaking Studio

  • A space to practice your pitch, presentation, or lecture
  • PitchVantage software gives real-time feedback on nine aspects of your delivery, with advice on how to improve
  • Become a more confident, self-aware public speaker
  • Open to all members of the Yale community
A lecture to a large group in LC 101.

1-on-1 Consultations

  • Practice your pitch or talk in front of a human audience
  • Get feedback on clarity and structure, as well as your delivery
  • Get discipline-specific feedback and rehearse follow-up questions with a scholar in your field
A GWL Fellow and a writer discussing a paper together in a Poorvu Center office.

Still Have Questions?

For questions about the Certificate for Public Communication, contact GWL Associate Director Julia Istomina. 

For help with the Public Speaking Studio or 1-on-1 consultations, contact GWL Director Ryan Wepler.

Explore GWL Programs

  • Writing Consultations

    Get 1-on-1 feedback at any stage of the writing process—from brainstorming to final edits.

  • Workshops & Panels

    Interactive opportunities to grow your academic writing knowledge or expand your toolkit of skills.

  • Peer-Review Groups

    Groups of 4–7 students who meet weekly to share feedback, make progress, and support one another on a common project.

  • Writing Retreats & All Writes

    Full-day and half-day events where graduate students set goals and write as a community in a quiet, supportive space.

We’re here to help!

Reach out to the Poorvu Center team if you have any questions or to learn more about our programs.

Contact Us