What inspired you to become a co-head of the Speech and Debate Club?
“I was highly encouraged from a young age to participate in public speaking opportunities. My middle school mandated that all students from kindergarten to eighth grade try out for the annual speech contest. While the majority of my peers despised this tradition, it led me to find a true passion for the art of public speaking. I participated in my first competition at four years old and felt the immediate attraction. The speech contest quickly became my forte, and I was undefeated for many consecutive years, respectively placing in second or third otherwise. I am very fortunate to have been offered the opportunity to begin competing in a comfortable environment, so I was at ease when it was time for me to attend larger competitions. After nine years of competing, I truly recognized and respected the benefits of public speaking. I was presented with the opportunity to be co-head of Speech and Debate and immediately jumped at the opportunity to share my love and passion for public speaking with the Sacred Heart community.”
What experience do you have at Speech and Debate tournaments?
“Unfortunately, there was no Speech and Debate Club during my freshman year. Sophomore year was my first year competing in the New York Catholic Forensic League, and I attended three tournaments. In addition, I was the only Sacred Heart representative. I went into my first tournament rather blind and underprepared. I used it as a learning opportunity to improve upon and watched my peers intently. At my last tournament, my scores had improved dramatically, and I was placing in the high 90s. I am attending my first tournament of 2023 later this month and hopefully will bring my club members with me this time around.”
Why is it necessary for Upper School students to learn public speaking skills?
“Public speaking, while not everyone’s cup of tea, is one of the most important skills a student can have. My mission this year for the Speech and Debate Club is not to force the members to compete but rather to instill speaking skills that will benefit them throughout the rest of their lives. College interviews, future job interviews, and day-to-day conversations require a level of comfortability and fluency that can only be mastered with practice. Through outlets, such as the Speech and Debate Club, students are able to improve upon their skills and face challenges in a comfortable environment to readily prepare them for a successful future.”
The King Street Chronicle thanks junior Maxine Boeding ’25 for her contributions to “Humans of Sacred Heart.”
