Grace Swihart is a junior at Lake High School that deserved attention brought to her success as a Speech and Debate standout. Speech and Debate had their annual state competitions on March 1 so we asked her some questions to understand what it is like being ranked top 6 in Congressional Debate.
What exactly is Speech and Debate?
“Speech and Debate is a competitive activity that challenges students in public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking. It includes many categories, from persuasive and informative speeches to structured debates where we engage in argumentation on multiple complex topics weekly (this is Congress, my category). It’s more than speaking well, it’s about thinking fast and smart.”
When and why did you start?
“I started the Congressional Debate Team at Lake High School my freshman year. However, I’ve been debating since 8th grade. I started because I was fascinated with politics but over time it became more than just an activity, it became a passion that sharpened my knowledge of the world around me.”
How did you teach yourself?
“I learned the basics from dinner table political discussions with my dad. In 8th grade, I started studying top debaters in the country and analyzing winning speeches. I remember watching a six-hour debate round multiple times just to memorize the structures! My biggest asset, however, has been listening to daily political podcasts to broaden my knowledge and strengthen both my speaking skills and confidence.”
How is it teaching others; harder or easier than teaching yourself?
“Teaching others is a different challenge because everyone learns differently. When I was teaching myself, I could adjust on my own time, but coaching others requires me to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and personal styles. It’s harder because I have to break down ideas that make sense in my head into simple steps, but it’s also rewarding to see others grow and succeed.”
How did you become so successful at debate?
“I equate my success now to the work I put in at the start of this journey. There were weeks where I would spend upwards of 40+ hours researching, writing, and practicing. I dedicate time to understanding my topics inside and out. With confidence, I truly believe I can accomplish anything so I enter every debate with an assertive and fearless mindset.”
Tell me about your experience at states last year/this year?
“Last year, I struggled at states because of a weak mindset. I was intimidated by tough competition and got so consumed by others’ arguments that I lost confidence in my own. But after that, I made a huge comeback—I qualified for the National Tournament from Big Districts as a sophomore and finished 97th in the country in Des Moines, Iowa. Nationals was an incredible experience that introduced me to so many talented debaters and gave me valuable connections.”
“This season, I recently competed at the state tournament and finished 6th. Although it’s not the outcome I originally wanted, it’s one I’m proud of. I faced more obstacles than ever at this tournament, and despite that, I proved who Grace Swihart is. I was one of the only women in finals, and I showed up ready to fight for my place in that room.”
What did you learn about that experience?
“I learned that I can accomplish nearly anything, no matter the circumstances, as long as I control my mindset. I essentially learned how to mentally manipulate myself into believing everything is fine—when it isn’t—so I can perform at my highest level. It’s all about mental toughness.”
What’s your end goal before you graduate for speech and debate?
“I want to inspire young minds and build an unstoppable legacy with the Lake Congress team. Personally, I’m going all in, I want to dominate at both States and Nationals before I graduate. Going for gold!”
As you can see, Grace Swihart is a hardworking competitor that will stop at nothing for the big win! We could all learn a bit from her about self confidence and determination. Grace will be competing one more time to see if she can compete once again at Nationals, make sure to wish her good luck!
