Unique courses provide unexpected impacts

Editor’s note: These questions were asked by the CSB Alumnae Board for inclusion in this column.

About Alexa:

Major: Political Science

Clubs: CSB Lacrosse, AKS service Sorority Employer: RSM US LLP, Manager, IT Business Operations Current CSB

Community involvement: CSB Alumnae Association Board of Directors, Board Development committee, Bennies in Business Mentorship program, InterAction mentor.

Were there any classes that you took that were unrelated to your major/career goals, but that had a significant impact on you? Why?

My education at CSB+SJU prepared me to become a strong, independent and confident critical thinker.

Reflecting on my time on campus, the classes I took start to meld together, but one class that stands out is Theory of Coaching Football, taught by the legendary John Gagliardi.

His teaching style emphasized the importance of networking, building relationships and stepping out of your comfort zone.

He would start each class by instructing students to sit next to someone they didn’t know and of a different gender. We would then spend time getting to know the people on either side of us and introduce them to the class.

This exercise not only helped me meet new people but also improved my public speaking skills, as the class was always full.

I am grateful for these experiences, as they have significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth.

John Gagliardi’s approach to teaching was unique and transformative. He believed that learning should extend beyond the traditional classroom setting and that students should be encouraged to engage with diverse perspectives.

By making us sit next to someone we didn’t know, he pushed us out of our comfort zones and fostered an environment of inclusivity and collaboration.

This practice not only helped me build a network of connections but also taught me the value of diversity in thought and experience.

It was through these interactions that I learned to appreciate different viewpoints and develop a more well-rounded understanding of the world.

Moreover, the emphasis on public speaking in his class was invaluable. Each time we introduced our classmates, we had to speak in front of the entire class, which helped me overcome my fear of public speaking.

Over time, I became more confident in my ability to articulate my thoughts clearly and effectively. This skill has been incredibly beneficial in my professional life, where effective communication is key to success.

Whether it’s presenting to a group of colleagues or leading a team meeting, the public speaking skills I developed in John Gagliardi’s class have been instrumental in my career.

In addition to the practical skills I gained, the class also taught me important life lessons.

John Gagliardi often shared his wisdom on the importance of perseverance, resilience and maintaining a positive attitude.

His stories and experiences served as a source of inspiration and motivation, reminding us that success is not just about talent but also about hard work and determination.

These lessons have stayed with me and continue to guide me in both my personal and professional endeavors.

Overall, the Theory of Coaching Football class was a pivotal part of my education at CSB+SJU.

It not only equipped me with essential skills but also shaped my character and outlook on life. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have learned from John Gagliardi and for the lasting impact his teachings have had on my journey.

As parting words, I’ll leave you with the most important lesson he taught about understanding football: Do not fumble the ball — a lesson that applies to both the game and life.