JOIN UMD DEBATE

What in the world do debaters debate about, anyways?
It depends. Here are the basics:

• The Resolution
  Every year, teams across the country vote on a policy statement referred to as "the resolution." Based on that statement, teams will form plans that the government could enact to support the statement and give reasons why the government should enact the plan. Teams will also research plans run by other teams and find flaws or disadvantages in those plans. Since tournaments have debaters defend and negate the resolution an equal number of times, we must prepare both sides. The general topic area for this year is China. For more information on the topic paper (full of interesting research) and potential resolutions, email or call us.
  
• Politics
  Debate is always a great activity for Political Science majors. Both intramural and competitive debaters will increase their knowledge of politics through involvement in this activity. Topics chosen for the Intramural League will be chosen based on student interest and are likely to center on the upcoming elections or other political events. Competitive debaters will also find that politics are quite relevant to the current topic.
  
• Science
  Due to the chosen topic area, technology and science will be a huge area of interest. We encourage science and engineering majors to participate as debaters or researchers. Not only can research be applied to classes you take now or in the future, but you can be paid to do that research. Considering the topic, now is a great time to become involved.
  
• Philosophy
  Do you think competition sounds a bit dry? Philosophy majors and creative minds will be pleased to know that debate offers opportunities for you, too! The philosophical underpinnings of policy action are often challenged in rounds. Ethics, postmodern thought, and the performative value of arguments are weighed down during rounds. If you want to read and discuss great works by great minds of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, we encourage you to join and share your insight.
  

The Benefits of Joining the Debate Team:

• Travel to different parts of the US
• Meet a variety of people from all the top universities across America
• Compete with teams from all the top universities, including Harvard and Cornell
• Increase public speaking, research, and critical analysis skills that apply to all aspects of life
• Acquire the skill of thinking fast in critical situations
• Opportunity to utilize and enhance your knowledge and skills on a variety of topics
• Recognition of academic success from prospective employers and/or graduate schools
• Provides you with an edge in college and beyond
• An enjoyable experience that leaves you with memories to last a lifetime
  

All this is GREAT! -- How do I join the team?

Three Ways to Get Involved:

• Intramural League 2006-07
  You can participate in debates on campus. We will offer town hall meeting-style discussions, small competitive tournaments, and the opportunity to debate with students from other student organizations. Ideal for students who have busy work and school schedules, we offer the opportunity for students to get involved and learn basic argumentation with minimal commitment.
  
• Research Fellowship 2006-07
  Preparing for graduate school or law school? Want to improve on your research skills, become familiar with internet databases, learn about current events, and get paid for it? Apply for a Research Fellowship! No experience is necessary. We want hard-working individuals with strong interests in topics we commonly debate. This option offers a very flexible schedule.
  Contact Laura Farms, Director of Research for more information.
• Competitive Debate
  Preparing for law school? Want to have broader knowledge that gives you an edge in classroom discussions? Want to improve your ability to debate issues, construct persuasive arguments, learn teamwork, and increase your confidence when speaking? With the opportunity to travel nationwide, compete at tournaments, win awards, and earn scholarship money, competitive debating is one of the most rewarding things you can do during your college career. While there is an increased time and work commitment (research assignments, weekly practice rounds, travel one weekend a month), it is well worth it. This is one of the best opportunities offered by our university.

Email the Debate Team to sign up or get more information!