@SpeechMn domestic tip: watching and reading the news is a good way to keep up on super current events, but also keep track of bills in congress, current climate change policies in state, the filibuster etc - things that are not being talked about right now, but are always looming over you
@SpeechMn as an ex speaker, i am used to bored looks, but if i was an interp category my self esteem could not handle it. i know that some of you hear the same speeches over and over again, but watch for improvement and look for a speaker's strengths! it's far more fun to be supportive.
@SpeechMn so close it cost me finals. the worst part is this happened in two rounds - critiques with no reason for decision, negative critiques, or even positive comments. disappointed in section judges.
@SpeechMn saw the same judge 2 years in a row at sections. first year he gave me a 4 with no critiques - he just wrote down points that i made (to put it in perspective, i'm an ex speaker and i haven't gotten a four at all this season). same thing happened this year and rounds were so (1/2
@SpeechMn after wanting to do well and finally doing well after so long, the pressure in the seasons following is immense. going from a state trip in my first season of ex speaking to now straight threes or fours with no constructive criticism from judges just makes it worse.