And yet, students clamor to get into the reticence courses - this year, Penn State had to close interviews two days early because all openings were filled - and many describe the class as a turning point in their time at college.
"It was much easier to learn to talk when I was in a big room of people who had my problem," says Nathan Belanger, a junior at Penn State. He used to lose track of his thoughts, fall silent for periods of time and contemplate giving up and walking out of the classroom. He says his grades have improved.
"Not being able to voice my own opinions really hurt," he says. "I never figured out what I'm so afraid of. I'm just relieved I found a way to get around whatever it is."
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