For many people, the thought of public speaking is terrifying, but for the members of the SCASD Forensics Team, it’s a skill they willingly work to improve.
“No matter what field Forensics Team members eventually pursue, the ability to speak comfortably in front of others is a valuable asset,” said Aria Mason ’17, the 2016–17 President of Forensics Team.
Speech events, extemporaneous speaking, congressional debate, and mock trial are some of the events that make up the club. Students choose which they would like to compete in and work on the skills they need to be successful.
Forensics teams travel to competitions against other schools. While it is competitive, one of the aspects members love the most is the friends they make along the way.
“I was absolutely floored by the camaraderie and open demeanor of my fellow competitors,” said Mason. “I found an extended family stretching across all of Pennsylvania (and even the nation) that I still maintain contact with today.”
State High teachers Jen Rand and Melissa Wager are co-advisors for Forensics. Rand is a Learning Enrichment and Gifted Support Teacher and the National Honor Society Advisor. Wager is an 11th and 12th grade English teacher.
“When I was approached to help advise the club, I couldn't resist the opportunity to support students in this experience,” said Wager, “knowing how valuable these skills will be in their future careers.”
Rand’s son had participated in Forensics when he was in high school, so she was familiar with how the club operated. When the role of Forensics coach became available, she was excited to take it on.
Each year, between 40–60 students participate in Forensics.
Wager and Rand have a long list of skills that the club helps students with, including:
- Increased confidence in public speaking
- Developing strong critical thinking skills
- The ability to view both sides of an issue
- Working and collaborating with a team
- Exploring the complexity of current topics
When Kristine Lai ’17 became the Team Captain in her junior year, she helped the team through some challenging times. They had lost their attorney advisor, and Lai had to jump in to fill the gap. She put in the extra hours to learn the more technical aspects of trial and helped to teach her teammates.
“I was stunned by everyone’s willingness to fully commit themselves,” said Lai. “I have continued to see everyone grow; it’s so gratifying to see the growth in all of us from the beginning of a year to the end.”
Lai has been able to chart her own growth by looking back at judges’ ballots from some of her early forensics competitions. Compared to her critiques today, she can see how far she’s come.
“Forensics is a wonderful opportunity for students to build their confidence and learn new skills,” added Lai. “Together, we learn to overcome our fears and worries to improve ourselves.”
Senior members of the club also play an important role in mentoring novice competitors. Mason says that the willingness of new members to learn and their ability to take on leadership roles has made Forensics truly worthwhile for her. She hopes to leave a legacy of excellence and spirited competition after she graduates.
“If during my first novice tournament my coaches told me that (just two years later) I would qualify for and attend the National tournament, I probably wouldn't have believed it,” said Mason.
