North Catholic student moving to finals in national speech competition
A rising senior at North Catholic High School ranked as one of the top 24 students in the nation at a national speech competition in late May.
Anna Pohl, a member of the North Catholic forensic team, competed in Washington, D.C., in extemporaneous speaking at the National Catholic Forensic League tournament. Her “extemp” field started with almost 200 competitors. Anna moved into the octofinals on the second day to compete with the top 48 students in the field.
In the event, students are given limited time to research, write and memorize a speech about a current event. Anna was asked to speak about topics like the U.S. economy and the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which landed her in the top 24.
Anna said being in forensics has helped to develop her as a student.
“I view competing nationally as an incredible experience to push myself and step outside of my comfort zone,” Anna said. “This not only has allowed me to grow my confidence as a speaker, but it has also allowed me to grow as a person.”
