Freshman Mei Johnson finds success in debate

With five years of debate under her belt through elementary and middle school clubs, freshman Mei Johnson has quickly found her place on the team.

One of her greatest accomplishments this year was taking second place at the Jack Howes Tournament. Johnson mostly enjoys how debate has sharpened her abstract thinking and oratory skills.

“I have learned to think on my feet and to think creatively. [It has] allowed me to generate ideas more quickly and has helped my public speaking skills, especially for class presentations.”

Johnson feels that the practice she Freshman Mei Johnson finds success in debate gets from debate will give her the tools necessary to become a lawyer.

“I want to be a lawyer so honing my public speaking skills and learning how to perform under
pressure will help me in the long run,” Johnson said.

Although the team faces demanding work loads, Johnson believes that they frequently find solace in the camaraderie they all share.

“Everyone is just really friendly and accomplished so we have a better environment in contrast to other debate teams that tend to be very competitive,” Johnson said. “All  the collaboration with compiling evidence, discussing strategies and traveling to tournaments really brings us closer together.”