I am a member of my high school’s public forum debate team. In this event, my partner and I heavily research and build arguments for the “pro” and “con” side to a given topic using evidence and logic. We have debated multiple topics such as the Great Power Competition, the harms and benefits of the US government legalizing all illicit drugs, and the need for increased cryptocurrency regulations. This wide range of topics has allowed me to learn more about many global issues that I otherwise wouldn’t have known much about. Debate has strengthened my critical thinking and public speaking skills as we must defend our arguments, develop probing questions, and refute our opponents on the spot.