What I Learned In Novice Debate

The best skill I developed in novice year of debate wasn’t learning how to research or make a speech. It was learning how to walk in high-heeled shoes. The pair of heels I owned was perfect for debate: sleek and professional, launching me four inches into the air. I was determined to wear them. After all, besides preparation and skill, intimidation was the most important asset

The problem? There’s nothing threatening about a girl wobbling in her new shoes.

I had to learn fast. Carrying huge tubs of evidence while tripping over my own feet forced me to trudge miles behind my partner. I would walked into rounds out of breath and ready to collapse. I could tell my opponents thought I would give up an easy win.

I couldn’t just give up. Firstly, the shoes were cute! Secondly, I was too stubborn. In between running speed drills and highlighting my evidence, I would practice walking. I paced my kitchen floor from one end to the other, keeping my head straight forward and ignoring my inquisitive family. At one point, I even googled advice. Eventually, my knees stopped buckling. Eventually, I could hear the satisfying click of my heal on the hardwood floor. Eventually, I mastered the art of intimidation.

Debate required me to be quick on my feet – mentally and physically. By the end of the season, I’d compiled directions on how to walk in high-heeled shoes. Walk proudly. Balance your baggage. Never ever look down.