Debating a Pastime

Written and photo by Zinzile Ncube

@_ziznye._

Looking to build confidence and gain a potentially profitable skill? Maybe you’re a Marketing major who wants to work on their advertising skills, or a Science student looking for a break from the intense studying whilst still enjoying the use of statistics and facts? The school has a vibrant and active Debating society that not only trains and molds new debaters but also puts them into spaces to compete and showcase the skills they have learnt and worked to perfect.

The club meets weekly to train on the argumentative skills used in the British Parliamentary style of debate which puts four teams against each other, increasing the difficulty of the competition. This makes for an entertaining and engaging intellectual match-up that challenges not only those debating, but those watching as well. The teams have travelled countrywide, making several trips to New Brunswick and even sending members to Toronto; with the team stacking up trophies and accolades at various universities, the fairly new society is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with.

There are multiple studies and statistics that prove that debaters make for more successful, dynamic and influential professionals and workers. These spaces create ample opportunities for growth and development amongst the people who challenge themselves to be in them, often stepping out of their own comfort zones to better themselves and their mental dexterity. It seems that being part of the Debating society is a great way for students to improve their academic skills, but the sign-up sheets are still unfilled and attendance for the growing club is still lacking numbers. However, students that have joined have ample opportunities for growth and advancement, as the society is quite new and its potential is unlimited; especially with the determined, talented and diligent leaders of the society who lead the club with a spirited and energetic mindset.

We can expect that the society’s hard work and successes will soon be recognized on campus by both the student body and the administration; with the hope that the club will move from being a social society into becoming a competitive team. There is a chance to fill your co-curricular record, gain marketable skills, and meet new impressive minds right in the school building. The only thing you need to do is make your way to McNally Main North 335 on Thursdays.