Pranika Kumar

Ascend California - Congressional Debate Junior Instructor

Pranika Kumar is a senior at Edina High School in Minnesota, where she has competed for five years. During that time, she has placed 1st at the Emory Barkley Forum tournament, 1st at the National Speech and Debate Opener, 3rd at the Tournament of Champions (PO), and 6th at Florida Blue Key, and she was a finalist at the NSDA National Tournament.

Pranika views Congressional Debate primarily as a debate event with a focus on clear and adaptable arguments, where every speech truly adds substance to the round. However, she believes the speaking element is what makes Congressional Debate unique as an event and to the individual, and she is excited to work with students to highlight their own personalities through their speeches.

When out of the chamber, Pranika loves spending time with friends, baking, reading, and traveling. She can’t wait to work with everyone this summer!