Nov 27, 2023 At 11:17 AM EDT
For the past six years, my life has been profoundly shaped by my involvement in debate. As a Hispanic female and a resident of an economically disadvantaged community, I recognize that competitive debate has not only shaped my critical thinking and communication skills, but it has provided me a unique way to utilize my voice. Debate has served as a beacon of opportunity, breaking down barriers and providing a platform where I could not only compete but thrive. Amid intellectual rigor and spirited exchanges, I have found a community that values diverse perspectives. Nowhere have I felt a stronger sense of belonging and home than when I participated in a debate.
My journey in debate began in middle school, where I was a timid sixth grader. The rush of adrenaline as I stepped into my first tournament was a feeling I'll never forget. Nervous energy coursed through my veins, and my palms were sweaty with anticipation. Looking back, it was the beginning of a journey where every drop of sweat and every nerve-racking moment became a stepping stone toward self-discovery.
Early on, I recognized the fact that many people did not have the same opportunities that I had. I come from an immigrant family and my parents have always been incredibly supportive of my endeavors, as they were denied such chances. Empowered by this understanding, I decided that from then on I'd lend my voice to those who, for one reason or another, couldn't speak for themselves. Debate became a vehicle for me to navigate beyond the constraints of my circumstances, offering a pathway to personal and academic success.
Over the next three years, I underwent a transformative journey, blossoming into an outspoken and driven individual. The adeptness in critical thinking and the ability to pinpoint crucial information, honed over years of debate, proved instrumental in securing admission to a prestigious high school. Despite growing up in the South Bronx, I successfully secured admission to the top-ranked school in New York State. Honestly, I never thought I had it in me. Even with the confidence I gained through debate, imposter syndrome crept in as I entered high school. (Imposter syndrome refers to the feeling of being a fraud or impostor, despite evidence to the contrary.)
Once again, debate emerged as my saving grace when I established the team at the High School for Math, Science and Engineering last year. Founding the team at my school assisted me in building a community in which I no longer felt isolated. One autumn afternoon, our team had just finished practicing and, instead of going our separate ways, we all stayed back to chat. The casual talk turned into a real connection, and before we realized it, an extra hour had slipped away. It was a simple moment, but it made me feel like I truly belonged with my team. Within our first year of high school debate, we had won championships. Again, I was left with a feeling of shock and excitement.
Debate has unfolded numerous opportunities across various domains for me. The support from the team within the New York City Urban Debate League (NYCUDL) was invaluable throughout this journey. I was privileged to be named the "Student Representative" at the 2023 NYCUDL gala, where I had the honor of meeting both Elizabeth Prelogar, the Solicitor General of the United States, and Tiffany M. Hall, the Vice President at Mastercard. Opportunities like this don't come every day and I was amazed.
Looking back on that moment and my journey of six years, during which I have cherished every second of debate, I feel a profound sense of gratitude and awe. Recently, the realization struck me that, given this is my junior year, it will be the conclusion of my debate journey—as the upcoming academic year will require me to focus on college applications. As I close this chapter, I am reminded that the end of one journey marks the beginning of another. Whether in professional endeavors or personal relationships, the lasting imprint of debate will forever accompany me, both in my heart and brain.
Jazmine Chavez started her debate journey at MS 343 in the NYCUDL's first district program. She is now attending one of NYC's top specialized high schools, The High School of Math, Science and Engineering. She got involved with debate in middle school by following the footsteps of both her older brother and cousin who were a part of the after-school debate club. Jazmine believes debate is a great way to improve communication skills as well as learn about topics she otherwise wouldn't have the opportunity to learn about during school hours.
