For many high school students, extracurricular activities offer more than just a way to fill their time—they provide essential skills and help shape future careers. For one student at Trinity, speech and debate, also known as forensics, has become more than just a challenging after-school activity. For Jonah Downs, it has been a defining force in his high school journey and a powerful influence on his future aspirations.
Discovering Forensics: A Summer Camp That Sparked a Passion
"I first got into forensics when my mom signed me up for a forensics camp at Trinity the summer before my freshman year," Jonah shared. "It was there that I met Coach Gaddis. We immediately clicked, and after he explained the benefits of joining the team, he inspired me to dive into speech and debate."
For many students, taking that first step into forensics can be intimidating, but sometimes, it just takes the right mentor to highlight the rewards that come with the challenge. In this case, Jonah's connection with Coach Gaddis helped ignite a passion for debate that has only grown stronger each year. That story has allowed many other Trinity Prep Saints to excel at forensics on a national level.
The Motivation to Keep Going: What Brings Him Back to Debate Year After Year
Forensics is known to be rigorous, requiring critical thinking, in-depth research, and a willingness to push one's limits. Yet, despite the hard work, the community built within the debate team and the thrill of competition create an environment that makes the commitment worthwhile. It also builds tenacity and resiliency — essentials to the Trinity Prep student mission.
When asked what keeps him returning to such a demanding extracurricular, Jonah said: "It may be challenging, but the rewarding competition, good company, and devoted coaches make every single second priceless.”
A Future Focused on Economics and Politics: How Forensics Influences Career Goals
While forensics helps students develop public speaking skills, it also has far-reaching impacts on academic and career paths. Jonah hopes to pursue a career in economics with a sub-focus in political science—two areas where the critical thinking skills developed in debate will be invaluable.
"Forensics drove me toward these fields," Jonah explained. "My primary analyses in debate are based on politics and the global economy, and through that, I’ve developed a passion for proving a point and delving deep into political and economic systems."
Speech and debate have opened doors to new subjects and sharpened Jonah’s analytical abilities, preparing him for future challenges in college and beyond.
Beyond Public Speaking: The Everyday Benefits of Speech & Debate
While speech and debate may seem like it’s all about argumentation and public speaking, Jonah quickly points out that the benefits are much more profound.
"I am tenfold more confident in my speaking and in myself, which has allowed me to be more confident in social situations," he said. "I’m better at thinking on my feet and communicating with people, even when we don’t see eye-to-eye."
The confidence and communication skills gained from forensics translate into everyday life, from navigating social situations to stepping into leadership roles. Jonah shared how debate taught them to see the world from different perspectives and respectfully challenge others' views, helping them become more thoughtful and open-minded.
Challenging Misconceptions: What People Should Know About Speech & Debate
Jonah responded thoughtfully when asked what he wished more people understood about forensics.
"Speech and debate is much less about knowing what the world does for you and more about recognizing what you can do for the world,” he said. “It teaches you the inherent value of your voice and isn’t just for kids looking for a fight. It will challenge your ideals and help you form a unique worldview you can truly believe in.”
A Lasting Impact
As Jonah prepares for college and beyond, there’s no doubt that speech and debate will continue to influence his personal and professional life. Forensics has equipped him with skills that go far beyond public speaking—it’s taught them confidence, critical thinking, and the ability to engage meaningfully with the world around them.
For any students considering getting involved in speech and debate, Jonah’s experience shows that the benefits are boundless, and the lessons learned will last a lifetime. To learn more about Trinity Prep & its exceptional, nationally acclaimed forensics team, click here.