Whether you're presenting research, leading a team, or navigating a job interview, fluency in public speaking can set you apart. The CDS Toastmasters Club provides a supportive, low-pressure environment where students of all levels and disciplines can develop their communication skills, build confidence, and grow as thoughtful, persuasive speakers. With effective communication at the core of personal and professional success, CDS is proud to host a Toastmasters Club affiliated with Toastmasters International—an organization dedicated to helping students and professionals become confident, articulate, and influential communicators.

”In the world of data science, professionals often find themselves in situations where they need to communicate complex concepts, findings, and recommendations to a wide range of audiences. Public speaking is an essential skill for data scientists as it enables them to effectively convey their message and build credibility within their field.”

- LinkedIn Expert

Fall 2025 Meeting Dates Coming Soon!

      What is Toastmasters?

      Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. The CDS Toastmasters program is designed to help you fine-tune your public speaking, communication, and leadership skills through regular practice. In a safe and supportive club environment, you will learn at your own pace, utilizing a curriculum that has helped millions meet their goals while providing members opportunities to earn certifications to include on their resumes.

      Read about the CDS Toastmasters Club in BU Today.

      How does it work?

      Everything in Toastmasters revolves around the club. Our club helps people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and student leaders. You’ll find a warm, supportive group that shares your goals. Most clubs meet twice a month — usually on the first and third Thursdays of the month — for an hour.

      BU CDS ToastmastersWhat are the benefits of the CDS Toastmasters Club?

      • Effective communication is vital across all fields to convey ideas clearly and ensure understanding by others.
      • Toastmasters’ leadership skills enable effective participation in various contexts, including classroom settings.
      • Mastering self-marketing techniques can improve opportunities for internships, research roles, and securing employment interviews.

      Why Public Speaking Matters in Data Science: The Benefits

      Source: LinkedIn

      Public speaking can help you:

      • Explain complex data concepts to non-experts
      • ​​Influence decision-making
      • Network and build credibility
      • Foster interdisciplinary collaboration
      • Learn storytelling with data
      • Simplify technical jargon
      • Engage and maintain audience attention
      • Effective uUse of visual aids effectively
      • Encourage active listening and audience engagement
      • Handle questions, and objections, and more

      You may benefit from participating in Toastmasters if:

      • You struggle with presenting ideas to an audience
      • You want to improve your communication skills
      • You want to learn how to leave an everlasting impression on the people around you
      • You want to hone your leadership skills
      • You want a safe space to build your network and improve your self-confidence
      • You aspire to be a course assistant or a teaching assistant
      • You want to improve your critical thinking and time management skills

      If one of these statements applies to you, Toastmasters is a great resource!

      Officer List 2025-26

      Club Co-chairs:

      Tanima Chatterjee: Clinical Assistant Professor of Computing & Data Sciences + Director of Undergraduate Studies


      BU CDS Advising Elizabeth Carter Elizabeth Carter: Undergraduate Academic Advisor


      Questions? Email the Toastmasters Club co-chairs.

      For more information about Toastmasters International, please visit www.toastmasters.org