In a world where business moves fast, leaders are expected to respond even faster. To help students develop that edge and stand out, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business created Applied Improv for the Successful Business Leader as part of its new undergraduate business core curriculum.
“In today’s workplace, the ability to think on your feet, listen closely and communicate with confidence matters more than ever. Originally designed for our accounting majors, this award-winning course demonstrated such strong outcomes in adaptability, executive presence and clear communication that we expanded it across the college," said Kathy Farrell, James Jr. and Susan Endowed Dean of the College of Business. "Our improv course is not about being funny. It's about being ready."
Gavin Shaner, a sophomore majoring in computer science, finance, data science and math, noted how the course differed from his past training.
“While my prior speaking experience emphasized preparation down to the single word, this class is about thinking on your feet and responding to what is happening in the moment," Shaner said. "It creates this non-judgmental environment where we are supported by everybody there.”
That shift away from rehearsed perfection to being able to communicate effectively in the moment is intentional, said Julie Uribe, the lecturer who teaches the course.
“I hear words like ‘new,’ ‘fun’ and ‘exciting’ when students describe applied improv, and I believe those are the reasons why they buy in to this different and radical approach to learning,” Uribe said. “We jump into the exercises without a lot of lectures. There are no reading assignments or exams. That's intentional to get students out of their heads and ready to think on their feet.”
Instead of memorizing scripts, students practice responding in real time, adapting to change and collaborating with others. Uribe said the exercises build more than quick thinking.
“Increased confidence, effective communication — vocally and physically — and the willingness to get comfortable with the uncomfortable are just a few of the outcomes that I believe give each student the edge in the job market,” she said. “If two candidates for a job are similar, it's the soft skills like listening to learn, supporting a partner and establishing a ‘Yes, and...’ mindset that give students a better chance of getting that internship, promotion and ultimately their dream job.”
"Yes, and” is a foundational improv principle that teaches students to accept an idea and build on it rather than shut it down. Over time, Uribe said, it becomes less of an exercise and more of a leadership habit.
Though the classroom setup was different from anything Silas Amanullah, a junior business analytics major from Falls City, Nebraska, had experienced prior, the impact was immediate.
"I've never experienced anything like this course. I've presented to business professionals and CEOs, but this class helped me organize my thoughts so I can respond and keep the conversation going." Amanullah said. "I could have used this class a lot sooner."
Beyond skill-building, the course also addresses the obstacle of fear.
“There is a fear of humiliation of putting yourself out there. Whether collaborating in small groups or just raising a hand to ask a question, many students say they are nervous about being judged by others,” Uribe said.
By creating a supportive environment where risk is encouraged, students begin to gain confidence.
Mia Monroe, junior business analytics major from Elko New Market, Minnesota, admitted she was hesitant at first.
"This was definitely out of my comfort zone," Monroe said. "One of the concepts I learned is to go for things. If you have an idea in a meeting, speak up and be confident as you never know where it will land. Throughout the class, I gained a lot of confidence, and I saw the importance of using it and showing enthusiasm when speaking to a group of people."
In a classroom filled with movement, music and laughter, students also build connections.
“At a time when young people report high numbers of feeling lonely and isolated, one of the most exciting outcomes from the course is that students say they have found a community with their peers,” Uribe said.
Shaner shared how the benefits extend beyond the course.
"Being an effective communicator is going to be necessary in school, work and right now as I apply to internships and later when I apply for jobs after graduation. It’s also important in interpersonal relationships throughout life," he said.
Applied Improv for the Successful Business Leader is just one example of how the college's new undergraduate curriculum equips students with communication skills, collaboration and confidence employers value.
“At the Nebraska College of Business, we build data-driven decision makers, purposeful strategists, effective communicators and empowered professionals," said Farrell. "We prepare students to lead the future of business.”
