I'm a college freshman now. It started mainly in 11th grade where I had extreme anxiety. I had an AP language class (basically lots of presentations). One day after class, I went to my teacher and apologised for something but I was advertising my speech impediment. His response was "why does that have to matter? We got time." For some reason, I still don't know why but it just clicked with me. Overtime, I got more and more comfortable with presenting and I became more of a better speaker when I present. Next, I was in a community service club. There was an event that I was somewhat forced to go on (long story), I was extremely nervous but basically I had to spend a weekend in the woods with other kids overnight. I was extremely nervous that I got no sleep the night before. The experience literally forced me out of my comfort zone and broke me out of my shell to actually interact with others and make friends. I loved it by time I had to leave. I ended the year with better public speaking skills and better communicating skills overall. Next year, I became President of that club. I had to organise and administer meetings every week. I had to contact other organisations, conventions, set up events, etc. Today, I still enjoy public speaking and I try to always do the best I can. I plan to continue with this progress too.