National Qualifier-Malene Garcia

- March 17, 2018

Malene Garcia
2016 Duo
2018 Expos
2018 Duo

Team member since 2014
2016 State finalist in Dual Interpretation
2018 State finalist in Expository Speaking
2015 Nationals alternate in Public Forum
2016 Nationals alternate in Dual Interpretation
2017 Nationals alternate in Public Forum and Dual Interpretation
2018 National qualifier in Informative Speaking, Alternate in Dual Interp.
Premiere Distinction rank (highest level) with National Speech and Debate Organization
Academic All American
2018 NSDA WA All State-#6
State Ranked #1 in informative
State Ranked #11 in Dual Interp

Why did you join Speech and Debate?

In eighth grade, we had a debate assignment in class where we were assigned a topic and side and had to debate someone else. I really enjoyed it, so I took the speech class my Freshman year. The teacher is the last speech coach and she told me about the team, so, I joined. I kept going because it is fun, and I love all the people involved, coaches and students.

What is your favorite Speech and Debate memory?

We were at state at the University of Puget sound, someone called me up and told me they had just posted the list of who made finals and Eric and I made it in Duo. Then we ended up taking pictures all over campus and then everyone came to watch us in finals. It was the coolest performance because there was so much energy in the room.

What is the hardest part of Speech and Debate?

Choosing scripts is the hardest part. It can take a long time to find one that works for you (and your partner) and also works to be cut down into 10 minutes and still make sense.

If you are really committed to it, debate takes a lot of time if you want to be any good.

What do you do for fun?

Well, Caleb and I co-parent a hamster named Mango. I also like to be outdoors, hang out with friends, and take naps.

What other extracurricular activities are you a part of?