One of the most obvious skills gains from participating in speech and debate in high school is personal confidence. Students tend to complain that they haven’t gained any “real world” knowledge in high school to apply later in life. They overlook the art of debate as a necessary ability because it’s often out of their comfort zone.

A great debate is like a dance, moving back and forth with fluidity and purpose. Initially, it may feel awkward speaking in front of your peers, but you will find yourself becoming more comfortable with every meeting. Students will learn how to listen, develop an answer, and then respond appropriately. Throughout this whole learning process, they are also gaining personal confidence. This mental sureness carries through physically to a student’s voice, eye contact, and posture.

Confidence doesn’t solely come from winning a debate. Losing also allows you to see the flaws in your argument and how to improve yourself for next time. Students can incorporate their opponent’s tactics with their own to battle the next round successfully.

Even after debate class is over, the confidence will continue to spread into other sectors of a student’s life. Public speaking improves overall communication skills and reduces the anxiety that comes from the inability to express one’s self. The pressure from “real world” activities like a job interview won’t be as intimidating because of the experience the pupils have justifying themselves in front of a room full of people. Their self-esteem is higher as they can advocate for themselves and others effectively.

From the many skills acquired through high school debate, confidence is one of the most important. Numerous high schools and even universities are now making a debate or speech class a requirement for graduation because of the benefits and life skills gained by students.