Speech and Debate Student Places First in Two Competitions
Philosophy major from the Fullerton College Speech and Debate team, Gabrielle Smith, recently won first place at two competitions, beating out four-year universities across the nation. A big win for the speech and debate program, Smith was able to achieve this thanks to the college’s COMM 138 – Forensics course.
The first competition, titled the “Golden Gate Opener,” took place at San Francisco State University. The Fullerton College team debated on the use or development of artificial intelligence (AI), bias in AI and the risks of its uses to combat bias. An evidence-based debate, Smith, along with two other Fullerton College students, qualified for nationals. Smith secured the grand prize of first place against institutions including Sacramento State University, University of the Pacific, University of Pittsburgh and more.
The second competition was online, hosted by Marshall University. Smith placed first in the novice category after debating in the same category from the previous competition.
“The Forensics course at Fullerton College didn’t just teach me the mechanics of debating — it helped me find my voice and the power it holds. Through it, I explored new philosophies, styles of debate, and political perspectives that I could apply in competitions.” said Smith. “Coach Nielson’s lectures are tailored to each person so that we learn and thrive in debate no matter our background or interests. After my time at Fullerton, I want to continue debating at a four-year university, where I hope to continue developing the skills I learned here.”
After securing these victories, Smith qualified for nationals, along with three teammates:
- Daniel Solares
- Brett Larsen
- Hoang Ho
COMM 138 – Forensics is a communication studies course that offers endless opportunities for growth, confidence and more. One of the few competitive programs at Fullerton College, the course is open to all students no matter their major. The course practices student and debate strategy, distinguishes speech and debate at the college level and houses the competitive team on campus. Overall, the course aims to prepare students for the speech and debate competitions, foster confidence and promote intellectual achievement.
The course is coached by communication studies faculty Toni Neilson and Joel Salcedo. Together, both instructors have successfully prepared students like Smith to reach success through the excitement and intellectual challenge of debate.
“Debate provided me opportunities that no one in my family had access to. It was debate that challenged me, kept me interested and helped me build a community of people who lift each other up.” said Neilson. “My debate professors and coaches gave me opportunities that changed my life and now it’s my job to give those same opportunities to other students.”
In the spring 2025 semester, the speech and debate team will venture to University of Las Vegas for another exciting debate opportunity.
To learn more about speech and debate at Fullerton College, visit the debate and forensics team website.
