On Thursday, March 22, thirteen students from all over the Sandy Andy Region dared to do what many adults are reluctant to do. These 13 students all came prepared to speak publicly … and be judged on top of that!

All but two students developed a persuasive essay for their speech. Being a participant myself, I had the privilege of watching as the weeks of hard work and practice shone brightly through in each final product. The two monologues were also intriguing because I enjoyed seeing how each interpretation was unique to the individual performance style of the speaker.

My own experience was one that I had not anticipated. Like most of the other speakers, I had my oration planned out to the last gesture. All the preparation in the world though, wouldn’t have prepared me for the library full of anticipating eyes. I felt a chill of anxiety run up my spine as my sweaty, shaking hands ruffled the papers in front of me. My heart began to beat faster and faster … until I froze, and a cold realization dawned upon me – behind that lectern, I was all alone.

Public speaking isn’t easy, nor always satisfying. This was the first time I had braved the task, at least the first time in front of people I didn’t know as peers or teachers anyway. I can honestly admit, it was one of the scariest things I have ever experienced. The effort seemed immense just to form my mouth around the syrupy words that clogged my throat. The beginning of the experience may have been nerve wracking, but before I knew it, the words began to flow smoothly. My voice filled with the expression and strength I had practiced many times. I even remembered my interpretative gestures and facial expression.

Though I did not win, I believe the experience will greatly help me in future tasks of public speaking. In fact, I’ve even requested a public speaking and debate class to take as my elective next year.

Tripp Middle School should take pride from the success of our speech team as a whole. Two participants from TMS placed in the top three during awards. Lillian Ramser placed third and Lucy Knowlton tied for first. Other winners included Kayleigh Morin from Mt. Blue who tied for first and Jamie Steven from Telstar who took second.