THE ECHO

By Idowu Adeleke // Reporter

How did you get into speech?

I got into Speech and Debate my freshman year. I was really inspired by Zainab, an Avon graduate who came to my middle school social studies class. I was inspired by how eloquently she spoke and how passionate she was about Speech.

What are your future plans?

I’m a senior this year, and I have been applying to many colleges. I’ve been looking into different colleges out of state, but I’m also interested in IU Bloomington and Notre Dame. I’m planning on majoring in biochemistry and becoming a doctor of some sort.

What has been difficult about being a captain?

Not much. I have very supportive co-captains Janani Devendran and Jay Desai, who separate the workload very nicely, so it’s not been that bad.

What other things have you accomplished this year?

The major accomplishment was being named Distinguished Young Woman of Avon. That was an amazing opportunity. I learned so much and built such strong connections with a lot of the girls I had the honor of participating with.

Where do you see this club headed?

I want to make sure that as the season progresses everyone can feel welcome in Speech. I foresee another state championship and more individual wins because of our amazing coaching staff.

Who has helped you along the way?

Mrs. Langford. She was there with me when I first started Speech and has been here with me ever since. The upperclassmen from my younger years such as Natasha Nair and Ian Brooks also helped me so much. They’ve all been so integral to my success in Speech and Debate.

What motivates you?

My mom. She is my number one supporter and she believes in me even when I don’t.

Are you satisfied with what the club has done in the past?

Definitely. This club has been an integral part of my high school career. It has accomplished so much for being a relatively new club, and I can’t wait to see how it affects others.

Are you employed?

I work at Kroger. I’ve been working there for a year, and it’s taught me about time management. A lot of what I do is academic, and having a non-academic time commitment is nice.

Any other clubs/organizations?

I am president of Avon’s National Honor Society, president of Avon Youth Civic Engagement Council, an Interact Captain, and a DECA member. I am also a member of the pre-med club and a member of the Symphony Orchestra’s Leadership Team.

Any hobbies?

I like to nap. Any spare time I get I take a nap, but I also like reading and playing board games with my family.

What is your favorite show?

I am a big binger of shows. Right now, my favorite show is Sister Sister.

What is your favorite book?

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn. I really resonate with the character Bree, who is faced with a lot of adversity, and I connect to her as a Black female protagonist.

What is your favorite subject?

My favorite subject is chemistry. I have been lucky to study AP chemistry and honors chemistry with Mr. Payne and Mrs. Kozinski. They are one of the reasons why I want to continue studying chemistry when I go to college.