Hi, I'm Sam and I am a sophomore at LASA! I joined the debate team last year and since then it has quickly become a major part of my life. Debate has given me invaluable experience in public speaking, critical thinking, research, and writing skills, and a deep understanding of yearly topics. This year's is focused on NATO and emerging technologies. Despite the fact that LASA Debate is not school funded, the team has had unprecedented success on the national circuit, much due to our coaches who in many cases work for free. After an era of online debate, tournaments are moving back in person which has provided the opportunity to travel and compete against friends from across the country. However, travel also increases costs. Any donation you are willing to give would be instrumental to helping our team cover travel costs, ensure equitable opportunities, provide help for our coaches, and sustain the growing team and in tandem its growing success (bonus all donations are tax-deductible). Happy holidays!