Empowering Students Through Speech and Debate: Journey to the 49th Harvard National High School Invitational
The Christ the King High School’s (CTK) speech and debate team in Middle Village is gearing up for an exciting opportunity as they prepare to participate in the prestigious 49th Harvard National High School Invitational Forensics Tournament. Scheduled for President’s Day weekend, this annual event held in Cambridge, Massachusetts, draws students from across the country, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and connect with peers.
As the anticipation builds, senior Adonis Cusu, a dedicated member of the CTK debate team, reflects on the upcoming tournament with a mix of excitement and nerves. “I’m really excited for this upcoming tournament, considering it’s much larger than a lot of the regional events we compete in,” says Cusu. “This one is more about meeting people from all around the country, getting to meet for multiple days, which is both nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time.”
The CTK speech and debate team has become a cornerstone of personal growth and development for its members. Meeting three days a week after school, the team not only hones their speaking and debating skills but also fosters confidence and self-assuredness. “Our primary focus is to help students be more confident in their speaking and have some fun as well,” explains Daniel Baran, the debate team’s moderator.
One of the standout aspects of the team is its commitment to creating a supportive and empowering environment. Through practice, coaching, and camaraderie, students are given the tools they need to express themselves effectively and persuasively. The benefits extend beyond the realm of competition, equipping students with lifelong skills that will serve them well in various areas of their lives.
However, the journey to prestigious events like the Harvard National High School Invitational Forensics Tournament comes with financial implications. Recognizing the importance of making this opportunity accessible to all interested students, the team has taken on fundraising efforts to help alleviate the costs associated with attending the event. “We tried to make sure to get to as many tournaments as possible. Going to Harvard is a big deal for a lot of students,” Baran notes. “Especially for seniors with the perspective of going to Harvard for their schooling.”
The prospect of representing their school at such a renowned event has united the CTK speech and debate team, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. As the President’s Day weekend approaches, the team is not only preparing their arguments and refining their delivery but also embracing the anticipation and excitement that comes with participating in a national tournament of this caliber.
For CTK students like Adonis Cusu, the journey to the Harvard National High School Invitational Forensics Tournament is not just about competition; it’s about growth, empowerment, and connection. As they stand on the cusp of this remarkable opportunity, their dedication to honing their skills and representing their school with pride is truly commendable.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/YQCRVv7WLpw
- https://qns.com/2023/02/christ-the-king-debate-harvard/
- https://chat.openai.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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