Junior, Hathaway Brown School
As a two-time National Debate & Speech Tournament qualifier in congressional debate, Lele definitely talks the talk. But she really enjoys the walk — traveling the world with her family to the ancient ruins of Israel, Greece, Italy and Jordan and zip lining over old mining areas in Juneau, Alaska. “We aren’t just taking vacations,” she says. “We’re learning at the same time.” National qualifier: As a freshman, Lele was the youngest qualifier for her debate discipline, which involves a mock legislative assembly where students draft and vote on proposed laws. “It was quite intimidating,” she says. She advanced to the semifinals, and although she did not place, Lele couldn’t have been happier. “I met a lot of people, and that’s crucial in debate,” she says. “It helps you gain the people skills you need when you go to college or get a job.” Political prophecy: After watching the presidential primaries, Lele wasn’t overly impressed with our politicians’ rhetorical skills. “What they’re doing is essentially poking holes at each other, but they aren’t talking about the actual policies,” she says. Future plans: In college, she expects to study finance or economics with a double major in computer science. Then it’s on to law school. “I’m super science-y, but debate has taught me to be business-y.” Drawing perspective: After visiting India for a cousin’s wedding in July, she hopped a plane to explore Alaska for 17 days. “There’s a place called College Fjord, which is a bay of glaciers,” says Lele. “It made me realize how small we are compared to these glaciers that have been around for millions of years. People just come and go.” Favorite subject: She enjoys history with teacher Kevin Purpura, who helps bring the past to life. “It’s almost as if you’re in a class that’s like storytelling,” Lele says. “I would never trade that class for anything.” Timeout for tennis: “When I’m playing, I’m not thinking of anything else but the ball,” she says. “Debate and research is all very mental. This is the fun, physical part of my day.”
