Breaking the Barrier: My Journey to the UIL State Finals
At the recent UIL State Congressional Debate tournament, I found myself as the sole freshman in a room of polished Sr debaters. It was a masterclass in growth: I learned that when you step into rooms where you feel out of place and speak anyway, you find your true potential. I am thrilled to have placed as a State Finalist, but I’m even more excited to pay it forward. Through my NGO, DebateXcel, I am helping the next generation of debaters build the confidence to command the podium.
Aliya K Sil
2/8/20262 min read
The air in the chamber felt heavy, charged with the kind of intensity you only find at the UIL State Congressional Debate Tournament. Walking in, I felt the weight of being the outlier, the only freshman in a room dominated by Sr. debaters with years of experience and polished, booming voices. At first, the intimidation was deafening. Every other competitor seemed to wear their confidence like armor, perfectly at home behind the wooden podium.
But as the sessions progressed, the noise faded. I realized that a debate isn't won by the age of the speaker, but by the strength of the argument. I stopped measuring myself against their years of experience and started trusting my own hours of preparation. I began to listen with more precision, speak with more intention, and find my own rhythm in the crossfire.
Each round was a forge, pushing me to think faster and speak with greater clarity. By the end of the preliminary rounds, the realization hit me: I hadn't just survived the chamber, I had commanded it.
When the finalists were announced and my name was called, the feeling was indescribable. Standing there as the only freshman in the State Finals was a defining moment. It was the ultimate proof that tenacity outpaces seniority, and that passion, when backed by hard work, knows no grade level.
This tournament taught me that true growth only happens when you have the courage to step into rooms where you feel out of place and speak anyway. Making the State Finals wasn't just a win for my record; it was proof that I belong. And for me, this is only the beginning.
Ready to Find Your Voice?
You don’t have to wait until you’re a senior to command the room. Whether you are just starting out or looking to break into your first final round, DebateXcel is here to bridge the gap. We provide the mentorship, resources, and community you need to turn your intimidation into influence.
Don't just join the debate, lead it. Visit DebateXcel.org today to explore our programs and start your own journey to the podium.