Specialty Masters Students Learn the Art of Storytelling

On March 3, 2017, specialty masters students at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business enjoyed an engaging Storytelling Workshop. The session, organized by the MS Professional Communications Club (MS PCC), was facilitated by professional storytellers from Story District.

Students practiced telling their own stories, including sharing a time they got into trouble. They also shared a time that they made a big change in their lives. Students were guided to improve their communications skills, and showcase their unique talents, strengths, and experiences through effective storytelling. A key point that was highlighted throughout the session was the fact that the most effective business presentations often include persuasive and memorable stories, not just slides and heavy quantitative analysis.

According to trainers Vijay Nathan and Meredith Maslich, the principles of effective storytelling include relying on the acronym “ARP:” “authenticity,” “relatability,” and “paint a picture.” They stressed that effective stories should have meaning, a universal theme and/or universal character types, and offer enough details so that listeners can imagine the setting and actions taking place.

Additional information about the importance of storytelling in the business setting has been published widely, including Harvard Business Review articles Why Your Brain Loves Good Storytelling and The Irresistible Power of Storytelling as a Strategic Business Tool. These articles stress that “Data can persuade people, but it doesn’t inspire them to act; to do that, you need to wrap your vision in a story that fires the imagination and stirs the soul."

For more information, join the MS PCC on Facebook at or search “UMDPCC on WeChat.

- Amy Swann, Masters Programs Office