Get to know an IAA Oral Communications Instructor
Image Credit: Diana Velasquez-munoz
Nina LaTassa holds a degree in English and a master’s in Speech Communication. Previously an editor, her passion for teaching is where she has put her focus. She’s taught Argumentation, Public Speaking and Speech Criticism.
Nina is one of our new Oral Communications lecturers and so we wanted to get to know her a little better – here’s what we found out:
1. Why did you join the IAA?
I joined because I knew it would be another wonderful opportunity to do my favorite thing: teaching. Any chance for me to teach is one I would grab.
2. What’s your favorite meal to cook? Are you known for making a certain dish?
Tuscan Bean soup because it’s easy to prepare, hard to mess up and I can add my own personal flavor to it without messing up the dish. But, I am known for making amazing ziti; it’s a family recipe.
3. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go and what would you do there?
I really want to do a cross-country road trip. There are so many places in the U.S. I have not seen and I think it’s important to see and appreciate what your native land has to offer.
4. What’s your favorite speech or line Ronald Reagan gave?
I would definitely say his second inaugural address. I love the language. I love how he delivered it. I love the tingly feelings it evokes.
5. What team do you root for in baseball?
The Yankees – hands down.
6. What’s your favorite Italian tradition?
The seven fishes. Christmas Eve is my favorite day of the year. I’m Italian, so Christmas Eve is very important.
7. Tell us about one of the most unusual or memorable speeches one of your students gave.
This past semester I heard about the Zombie Apocalypse. That was interesting. I’m not expecting it, but at least I know what to do and how to prepare adequately so I don’t die.
8. If you had a day off and could do anything you wanted, what would you do?
I would probably cook. I’d experiment with cooking and different things. That’s how I unwind.
9. What’s your favorite part about the IAA so far?
I’d have to say definitely learning the lingo. I’ve gained a new appreciation for any vocabulary relating to animals, their offspring, etc. My favorite experience is walking past the farm at 6 a.m. and smelling the manure.
10. What’s your New Year’s resolution? Or one of the best resolutions you’ve made.
One of the best resolutions I’ve ever made was to adopt the mindset that I can’t control everything. When you say “I will take each day as it comes” you will be a healthier and happier person.
