Each day, I profile two students at the Victory Briefs Institute so you, dear reader, can learn about the debaters from across the country who have joined us here at UCLA.
Today, however, Im profiling two staff members who were themselves VBI students. You see, Students of the Day was a feature here on VBD from 04 to 07. Then it fell by the wayside. I brought it back this year, but two staff members were upset that they never had the chance to be profiled as students. So today, Ive granted them their wishand theyre indeed being profiled as if they were still students. Why? Why not?
Name: Dylan Scher
School: Berkeley Carroll School (New York)
Class: 2011
Coaches: Jim Shapiro, Jacob Levi, Max Stevens, and Isaac Bloch
NFL Degree: Outstanding Distinction
How did you first get involved in debate?
I thought it would be an interesting activity. I was also wooed by my school coach Jim Shapiro, who promised that I would learn to slip some spice into my oratorical gumbo and that I would learn to uppercut the air with verbal uppercuts.
What is your proudest achievement in debate thus far?
I was the champion of the novice division of the Northeast Championships. I also debated and lost to Todd Liipfert hes the National Champion
What are your hobbies beyond debate?
Contrary to the beliefs of the Walt Whitman team, I am not a boating captain. I used to play basketball, but an injury dislocated my knee and tore away all of the cartliedge in my knee.
What are your main goals for VBI?
I want to become the fastest debater in the nation.
What is your favorite thing about camp?
I met a grizzled Vietnam vet that taught me about kritiks.
Name: Sasha Arijanto
School: The Altamont School (Alabama)
Class: 2010
Coach: Chris Castillo
NFL Degree: Outstanding Distinction
How did you first get involved in debate?
My Mom, not wanting me to get into mischief at home alone, sent me to debate camp before eighth grade. I took to it and the rest is history!
What is your proudest achievement in debate thus far?
Winning my very first tournament, the Samford University Tournament, was a huge achievement from me. It gave me the confidence to know that I can really do this. I only dropped a few ballots the whole tournament, and I always approach the next tournament trying to do just as good- or even better.
What are your hobbies beyond debate?
In addition to debate, I like to ride and show my horse, Taco, go shopping, and update my blog.
What are your main goals for VBI?
At VBI I want to practice my skills in dominance. Having seen Full-Spectrum Dominance by Wes Craven three years in a row, I am still perfecting some of those techniques.
What is your favorite thing about camp?
My favorite thing about camp is the great staff. They are always willing to go out of their way to teach me something new that I will definitely use in the upcoming year. Thanks yall!
