Taking one class in argumentation and debate does not usually make you an expert in the subject, but four students at Sterling College decided to test their skills at the Tulsa Invitational debate tournament. Despite no formal training with the College’s debate and forensics team, the students drew upon their experience in the classroom. And apparently having a professor who wrote a book about argumentation and debate was advantageous since two students walked away with awards. Anna Adamyk of McPherson, Kansas, and Micah Black of McPherson, Kansas, finished ninth and fifth respectively. They were joined by Micah Watney of Sterling, Kansas, and Alise Zerull of North Richland Hills, Texas.

“To have only had exposure to international parliamentary debate in the classroom and then compete collegiately is quite an accomplishment. I’m proud of all four students for stepping out and trying something new; it certainly isn’t easy to put oneself out there in a competition like that. As for Anna and Micah, I’m very proud of their accomplishment,” said Ken Troyer, assistant professor of communication.

The competition included students from 19 colleges and universities, including top-ranked schools such as Texas Christian University, Texas A&M and University of Central Missouri. The students had to be quick on their feet since IPDA debate changes topics in every round of competition. Topics were primarily pop-culture issues.

“I didn't participate in either debate or forensics in high school so I was nervous going into the IPDA tournament,” said Adamyk. “I was surprised about how quickly people prepared their arguments. We only had 30 minutes to research, prepare and get to the rooms. … I definitely feel like the Argumentation and Debate class helped prepare me. I knew most of the debate terminology that was used and I had a better idea of how to structure the arguments. The only other thing that may have helped prepare me was the encouragement from the others on the trip. They really made the whole experience great.”

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit  www.sterling.edu.