Forensics: The Best Activity for High School and College

What is forensics?  I’m not talking about CSI.  At a high school and collegiate level, “forensics” is a form of competitive speech, acting and debate.  Forensics ranges from debating current issues, to interpreting humorous or dramatic pieces, to speaking extemporaneously.  Whatever events you choose, joining forensics will prove to be a rewarding experience.

I first joined forensics as a tenth grader in high school.  I was already on the soccer team, but I decided to join because of my interest in debate and the fact that it looks good on a college application.  I quickly began to look forward to the weekly practices, and I couldn’t wait to compete in my first tournament.  I ended up placing sixth in debate (out of about twenty competitors) in the first tournament of the year.  Inspired by my winning trophy, I decided to increase my repertoire of events to compete in.  I preceded to place first among the novices in congressional debate (which is similar to Youth Legislature) at the next two tournaments.  I then placed first among all competitors in Television Newscasting at the subsequent competition. Forensics for me has now become a passion that I will continue to hone up through my post-secondary educational career. 

The amount of fun I have had doing forensics is incomparable.  Not just the winning, though that is plenty exciting in itself.  The friends I have made are some of the coolest people I know, and my confidence in life is going through the roof.  My public speaking skills have improved tremendously, and I no longer slip over my words or fear the sound of my own voice.  In short, I am much improved from having done forensics.

Forensics also is not only fun and exciting, it could greatly impact your future.  Colleges and employers love it when you have experience with public speaking, and many scholarships and financial incentives are offered for those who participate in forensics.  Public speaking can apply to all areas of your life, whether it be acing a job interview or arguing with your mother-in-law (see The Power of Speech).

So if your school has a forensics program, seriously consider joining.  Most high schools do not have tryouts for their teams, so no prior experience is necessary (colleges and universities normally do have tryouts and prior experience with public speaking is recommended).  You will probably find that you love participating in forensics as much as I do, and the benefits of doing so will be lifelong and fulfilling.  Forensics gives the opportunity to “come out of your shell,” and you will most likely gain greater confidence in all that you do in life.

I hope this article has been helpful for informing you of one of the most beneficial activities to do in high school and college (and one that also serves as my favorite).  Just that remember that in whatever you do to give it your all and not give up.