Improv Classes in the Bulls Business Community

It might feel strange at first yelling "zip, zap, zup" and looking for kitties in corners, but trust me, it makes perfect sense to the students in the Bulls Business Community. Every month, Kari Goetz from the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts joins the BBC to teach them the art of improv. Improv involves acting and reacting to one's feelings and environment at the drop of a hat. It encourages creativity, on-the-spot thinking, confidence, and new thought patterns - all very important skills in the field of business! And most importantly, it's fun!

Students have a chance to be a kid again. Improv inspires play - something so vital, but forgotten as we get older. Students are able to play with their peers in an environment that promotes contribution and acceptance. One thing that Kari stresses to students is to always say "YES!" to every idea. In one popular improv game, "Ad Campaign," Kari gives students a fake word and asks them to create a product and idea behind that word. Students form groups and brainstorm on what they think the word really means. The catch is - everyone is right! Students create bizarre ideas to share with the class, like an elephant made of glass that cures cancer and can live underwater or a purse that tastes like cheese and can fly you to the moon - and that's perfectly normal in improv! On November 10, 2009, USF President Judy Genshaft joined BBC students in "Ad Campaign" and even participated in a jingle for their made-up item! Working with President Genshaft would normally be intimidating for freshmen students, but 1st-year BBC students have spent all semester building up their confidence and practicing communication skills in improv that the activity was a walk in the park.

Students are learning skills that they will continue to need in their professional careers. There's no question that improv has helped develop and build relationships in their community; it has also shown them the importance of eye-contact in business, listening skills, communication skills, innovation, and much more.