When/why did you get involved in Debating?
I got involved with debating in my First year at Strathclyde. I had done some debating at school and enjoyed it a lot, but to be honest my main reason was that I knew I liked to talk, so why not talk about interesting things!?
What was it like in getting involved with Debates at Strathclyde?
It was really easy! I just emailed the convenor and went along one Thursday night. Everyone was so welcoming and lovely, and didn’t make me feel intimidated for not having a clue what was going on! They are now not only some of my best friends, but also some of the most intelligent and inspiring people to be around.
For those that are not involved, what is the set up during a debate?
There are two sides; proposition and opposition, and four teams, opening proposition, opening opposition, closing proposition and closing opposition. Each team has two speakers, each delivering an individual speech with a speech from whichever opposing team speaking between them – I hope that makes sense! You are given a motion, like ‘This House would ban gambling’ – but it can be about anything and everything, from art, to international relations, to health to science and then fifteen minutes to prepare with your partner, and then you give a seven minute speech!
Do you need to be a member to see a debate?
No! Anyone is welcome to come along and spectate or give it a go if they fancy. We also have show debates, our next one will be at the end of November.
What has been your favourite motion so far?
There have been so many amazing ones! One favourite motion that I have been debating in is ‘This House believes that the next protagonist of Grand Theft Auto should be female’. That was a lot of fun, I like a feminism debate! One of my favourites that I watched was ‘ This House regrets the rise of Dawkins style new atheism’ it was a fantastic final.
What are competitions like?
They can be stressful, but as long as you remember that it’s all just a game they are great fun. I have met so many lovely people from all over the world that I would never have met otherwise. There is always a night out, which are always messy but really fun! If nothing else, it’s a really good way to go out in other cities too!
For anyone thinking of getting involved any advice?
DO IT! It’s been one of my better life decisions, and could not encourage you more. It’s opened my mind, given me incredible friends and I’ve been able to travel and see so many new places! You can add us on Facebook, send us a message, whatever! Don’t be nervous, no one expects you to know exactly what you’re doing, but it is so worth giving it a try.