Alice Yi: Lakeville South High’s Rising Debate Star
LAKEVILLE, Minn. — In a remarkable achievement, Lakeville South High School senior Alice Yi has been selected for the elite USA Debate Team, one of just 12 students chosen nationwide for this prestigious honor. As she prepares to compete internationally, Alice is set to showcase her debate skills on a global stage, advocating for critical issues that matter to her generation.
A Multi-Faceted Student
At just 16 years old, Alice Yi exemplifies the modern student, adept at balancing numerous responsibilities while excelling in a variety of fields. Her multifaceted schedule includes serving as an officer in the National Honor Society, participating as a senior class officer, and leading the Link Crew—an organization that helps incoming freshmen transition smoothly into high school life. Beyond these roles, she contributes to the school newspaper as a writer and editor.
Moreover, Alice’s commitment to education extends into extracurriculars, where she is an active member of the Asian Student Union, the math league, and DECA, a club focused on entrepreneurship and business development. Her talents don’t stop there; as an accomplished artist, she has even secured grand prizes at the Minnesota State Fair, demonstrating that her creative abilities are as strong as her academic and leadership skills.
Volunteerism and Hobbies
Outside of the classroom, Alice extends her skills into the community through volunteer work, providing invaluable service while honing her interpersonal talents. One of her unique ventures includes face painting, a delightful way she engages with younger children at community events. Additionally, her internship with the Federal Reserve speaks volumes about her ambition and desire to understand the complexities of financial systems.
Alice’s dedication to music further enhances her profile; she is a long-time pianist, allowing her to express her creative side while also promoting emotional wellness and critical thinking skills. Her diverse interests help her connect with people from various backgrounds, enriching her understanding and perspective—a key asset in any debate.
A New Challenge: World Schools Debate
As a member of Team USA, Alice will dive into World Schools Debate, a unique format that encompasses an expansive range of topics—ranging from international politics to artistic expression. This inherently interdisciplinary approach not only tests her debating skills but also requires a deep understanding of the complex issues impacting the global community.
The team’s itinerary promises excitement and challenge, with plans to travel across the United States and overseas. Competing against some of the world’s best student debaters will certainly be an exhilarating experience for Alice. Each debate serves as a platform to refine her argumentative abilities while potentially influencing her peers and judges on pressing global issues.
Insights from Leadership
Lakeville South High School Principal Shaun Murphy highlights Alice’s dynamic presence within the school, noting that her extensive involvement has fostered strong communication skills that benefit the entire community. According to Murphy, “Alice’s diverse interests and commitments have made her a valuable asset to our school. She embodies the spirit of student leadership and academic excellence.”
Alice herself reflects on her rigorous schedule as a source of joy and personal growth. She credits her wide-ranging involvement for providing her with a unique perspective that informs her debates, enriching her contributions and enhancing her experiences both in and out of the classroom.
With her first international competition on the horizon, anticipation builds for how Alice Yi will leverage her skills and experiences to represent the USA on this prominent stage.