lets say my HS debate team is one of top in country, and that’s thanks to a few top debaters- however, if I am on the team (simply a member) and the team wins national competitions, would it be an impressive EC if I say I’m on a Debate Team with Multiple National and state awards, even tho the top debaters are the reason why the team is good and not me?
Thx in advance
Well my first instinct is, if you were to word in a way that isn’t a lie “Member of nationally decorated high school debate team,” I think it’s okay but in a lot of ways it seems to imply that you aren’t one of the nationally decorated debaters. I want to point out that if your high school has a team at the national circuit level, it’s pretty easy to google and see who the stars of the team are.
I don’t see it as any different from being on a winning sports team or marching band or theater production, etc. You’re a member of a team that did well. Putting that on the Common App as an accomplishment is a good thing as long as you word as @Burdened said.
I’m going to disagree.
In debate, once you get into the room, it’s more of an individual or duo activity (LD vs team). What makes a “nationally ranked” team is a high percentage of winning team members.
In addition to being a member of a nationally ranked debate team, the top debaters also compete at States and Nationals and place well at those competitions.
So going to, say, Bronx Science and being on the team doesn’t say anything unless you can also say you placed 1st in NY and 1st at Nationals.
Adcoms know the difference. You’re new to admissions, they’re not. They’ve seen those top debaters, whose resumes also include the individual awards.
So, yeah, put it down. But don’t assume it will help a whole lot.