Why Debate Should Be Your Number One Extracurricular
Debate gives students a skill set that applies to every single field — and a short-term edge in college admissions. Here's why it's worth fully committing to.
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Ascend Blog
A Day in the Life at Ascend Congressional Debate Camp
What does a day at Ascend actually look like? A look at how we balance structured learning, individualized coaching, and a ton of summer fun.
Read more →Why Congressional Debate Is the Best Event for Life Skills
Congress is the ultimate hybrid — combining the best of speech and debate. After 13 years in the activity, here's why it prepares you for life like nothing else.
Read more →How to Be a Great Debate Captain: Lessons From 10 Years of Coaching
Being a captain isn't about being the best competitor — it's about elevating everyone around you. Four lessons from a decade of coaching championship teams.
Read more →How to Transition From a Local Congress Debater to a National Circuit Debater
The jump from local tournaments to the national circuit is a culture shock. Here's everything I wish I knew — and the gradual, achievable path to making it.
Read more →The Difference Between Good and Great Congress Debaters: What Actually Separates the Top 10%
70% of Congress debaters all look the same to judges. Here's how to break out of the middle and become the memorable competitor who ranks in the top 10%.
Read more →How Debate Helps Students Get Into Top Colleges: The Key to Winning College Admissions as a Debater
Debate accomplishments alone don't get you into top colleges. The real edge comes from showing how the activity shaped who you became — not just how much you won.
Read more →The Value of Private Coaching: Why Great Coaching Supplements—Not Replaces—Your School Coach
Private and camp-based coaching isn't a replacement for your school coach — it's the scaffolding that reinforces fundamentals and keeps your results consistent.
Read more →Why Come Back? The Power of a Second Summer at Ascend
Year one you learn to fly; year two you soar. Returning students already speak the Ascend language — and that's where the fastest growth we see all year happens.
Read more →Getting Started in Middle School Debate
Starting in middle school gives your child a powerful head start on the skills AI can't replicate. Here's how to begin your child's debate journey.
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