The decision about whether or not to debate in college can be tough. But the benefits of college debate are simply too valuable to pass up! 

Education

College debate is educational for all of the same reasons that high school debate is: public speaking, research, critical thinking, etc. However, it is a much more intense experience. College arguments tend to be more diverse, strategic, and complex than they are in high school. College debaters learn a TON about arguments and strategy as well as about the specific topics researched.

Employment

Debate can set you apart from the pack after graduation. A debate background shows that you have many skills that employers often look for like research and communication. It’s also a unique experience that most other job-seekers won’t have. And, if you’re planning on continuing your education, it can help with admissions for advanced degrees.

Debate can also become your career. Many debaters go on to become life-long college debate coaches!

Social Life

The collegiate debate community is smaller and more close-knit than the high school community. Not only do you meet and spend a lot of time with your teammates, but you also have the opportunity to meet and spend weekends with people from across the country. In a lot of cases the relationships that start during your time in college debate can last a lifetime. And for someone starting college far from home or away from friends, the debate team is often a built-in social network that can make the college transition much smoother.

Scholarships

Several college programs can offer scholarships to their debaters. This can range from a small amount to a full-ride. Cash. Money.

Travel

Many high school teams don’t have the opportunity to travel beyond their region, much less the state. College debaters, on the other hand, get to travel all over the country. Tournaments are held in places like Boston, Chicago, Berkeley, Los Angeles, Lexington, Austin, etc. It can be a lot of fun to travel to new places, even if you don’t have a ton of time to devote to sight-seeing!

Competition

College debate is the best-of-the-best. You’ll be involved at the highest level of the activity and competing against those who are literally the best at what they do. It will be one of the most challenging and rewarding pursuits that you’ll ever experience. How fun!

Join the Team!

If you’re interested in debating in college, don’t be afraid to do some research on the team and email the coaches at the schools you are considering. Walk-ons are the most common way that debate teams are populated so don't be shy.

Even if you weren’t a debater in high school you can still debate in college. Most college teams would love to have more novice debaters.

If you still aren’t sure, just try it. Go to a tournament or two and see if college debate is right for you. If it isn't, no hard feelings. But if it is, then you've made a great decision!