SVUDL Helped Me Come Out Of My Shell

For Silver Creek High School student Mikim Nguyen, SVUDL opened doors she once thought were closed. "SVUDL has given me access to tournaments I never thought I'd be able to compete in. I've participated in over a dozen local Speech and Debate competitions that might otherwise have felt out of reach. Many of my friends at other schools worry about finding money for entry fees or recruiting parents to judge — I get to focus entirely on preparing and improving. SVUDL removed those barriers, giving me equal access to opportunities and allowing me to grow as a competitor with less stress and more confidence."

That access translated into real, transferable skills. "I've learned how to communicate my ideas confidently, even on complex or controversial topics," she explained. "I've practiced structuring speeches with clear claims, warrants, and impacts — so I can explain not just what I believe, but why it matters. Most importantly, SVUDL gave me the confidence to use my voice and speak up for what I believe in."

Those skills extend well beyond the competition floor. "I've learned to manage my time, balance competing responsibilities, think critically, and make decisions quickly under pressure. I've learned how to work with teammates, give and receive feedback, and keep improving. I've gained resilience, confidence, and the ability to communicate clearly — in academic settings and in everyday life."

What surprised Mikim most, though, was the culture she found. "The most impactful part of my SVUDL experience has been the way we celebrate each other — even as competitors. Instead of treating opponents as enemies, we genuinely support each other's growth and cheer on each other's successes. Whether it's praising someone's speech after a round or clapping for the person who placed above you, the sense of community is real. That environment taught me that winning feels amazing — but watching others succeed feels just as rewarding."

SVUDL also changed who Mikim is as a person. "SVUDL helped me come out of my shell. Giving speeches, supporting my teammates, and putting myself out there at tournaments made me more comfortable using my voice. I'm no longer afraid to share my ideas or ask questions, even in competitive spaces. And it's made me more supportive of others, too — I've learned to genuinely celebrate the people around me, not just myself. Through SVUDL, I've become not only more confident, but more compassionate."

That spirit of mutual encouragement is what Mikim loves most. "What I enjoy most about SVUDL is the community within the competition. I love the thrill of speaking and pushing myself in rounds — but what makes me happiest is the support from the people around me. After some of my rounds, people I'd just met would come up to compliment my speech or tell me they appreciated a specific idea I'd shared. Those moments mean a lot. They remind me that my voice is being heard and valued beyond just a ranking — and that we're all here to learn from each other."