Although it many believe the speeches are given in front of a large audience, the team speaks in front of a handful of people, Weigler said. As the president of the club, Weigler works within the New York City community. The group helps low-income public high schools establish their own clubs and join the New York Debate League. The debate team has also built programs in the New School and Bureau Manhattan Community College. There are also personal rewards for being a member of the debate team.
Students learn invaluable oral communication skills and the fear of public speaking fades.
Most importantly a student gains critical contemplation skills necessary no matter what profession one enters.