GET TO KNOW OCC PEER CONSULTANT EMMA DESANTIS
4/22/26
By Emma DeSantis
Emma DeSantis
Senior media and digital communication major, OCC Peer Consultant
“Hi! My name is Emma DeSantis and I’m a digital media communication major. I’m a first-semester OCC Peer Consultant. I wanted to answer my own questions this week regarding my role as an OCC Peer Consultant!”
Why did you choose to become a part of the OCC?
“I chose to become a part of the OCC after hearing about it from my advisor. She made it sound like a great opportunity to gain some experience and to connect with my peers. I also thought it would be fun to help my peers be able to overcome public speaking fears since I myself have struggled with them in the past.”
What is your favorite movie?
“My favorite movie is Little Miss Sunshine!”
What would you say is your worst habit when presenting/speaking publicly?
“My worst habit when presenting is reading directly off the presentation slide or my notes. I’ve since gotten better about this and have grown in my confidence, but it also came with getting more practice! I would practice in front of my friends and family, as well as by myself in public spaces to get comfortable without my notes. It kind of helped hold me accountable in a way.”
How do you think an OCC session is more beneficial to a client than practicing on their own?
“An OCC session allows the client to practice in front of someone they may not know so well, but someone who is a peer and is willing to help. The client is able to receive live feedback immediately after presenting or while editing an outline. The experience allows the client to practice while nervous in a low-stakes and judgement free environment.”
How can a client apply what they learned in an OCC session to future situations?
“A client can use the strategies learned and feedback given to future presentations, but they can also be applied to job interviews, wedding speeches, and networking events. Practicing the skills learned can help build confidence and adaptability in unexpected situations, and will overall help you strengthen your communication over time.”
What is the tip that you give to almost every client?
“I tell most every client that they should shake themselves out before presenting and frame their nerves as excitement. This is something that I’ve struggled with previously, so the method I use (even though it looks kind of strange) is to tense up every muscle in my body and then release. It makes me feel so much more relaxed. I also often get butterflies in my stomach as so many people do, but I saw a video on social media where a woman said that the butterflies you feel are really just applause for you and hyping you up. It’s silly, but it changed how I think about nerves.”
What would you say to a client who says that they’re embarrassed to practice their presentation or speech with you?
“I would tell them that this is a judgement free zone! I would explain that all the peer counselors have been in the same position before, so they understand how nerve-wracking it can feel to practice out loud. I would emphasize that practicing in an environment like the OCC is a great step toward building confidence and that consultants genuinely want to help clients succeed. Taking this step and making the appointment is something to be proud of, not embarrassed about.”
Like me, every peer consultant is rooting for your success and is here for you at any step in your process.
Book your appointment with the OCC today!