Synopsis

My virtual presentation is addressed to SUNY New Paltz administrators and staff members who deal with mental health (possibly people in the Psychology department). I am asking this group to consider enacting changes to further address/prioritize mental health at SUNY New Paltz. I assumed that members of this group would share my concern for the mental health of students and faculty. However, I made sure to stress the impacts of poor mental health on academic performance.

My ideas for solutions were largely based on logos. I incorporated statistical data to illustrate the positive relationship between student mental health and academic performance/dropout rates. I also used logos to indicate the problems with the Psychological Counseling Center (PCC), such as its size and poor location. Finally, I utilized logos at the end of the presentation. I stated that my ideas would “get the ball rolling” in an effort to address mental health, as true change is impossible without effort. My introduction was a combination of ethos and pathos. I established credibility by detailing my own experience with mental health. In doing so, I appealed to my viewers’ emotions. Additionally, throughout the presentation, I emphasized the fact that college is often very stressful. My goal was to help the audience understand just how mentally and emotionally taxing college can be.

The special effects aspect of the presentation was challenging because I am not an artistic person. I wanted my images to match the feeling of each slide. For example, I used inspiring imagery on the last slide because it was meant to be a hopeful conclusion. I also included a picture of the PCC so viewers could visualize my gripes with it. My main focus regarding slide design was making the text stand out. I utilized contrasting colors and text boxes to ensure that the text was easy to read. My use of animations was mostly for variety – I wanted to add another element to an otherwise simple slideshow. I also intended to include transitions between slides, but they did not appear in the presentation. Finally, I tried to talk as clearly as possible while keeping a consistent pace.

To Watch My Video, Click Here: Virtual Presentation