Raymond
Debate may seem distant and technically demanding, but it offers far more than just sharper thinking. It’s a gateway for students to understand the world and interpret complex issues.
Raymond, a Grade 9 student at Dominican International School in Taipei, began his debate journey through a moment of unexpected inspiration.
His mother, Maggie, recalls:"Back when Raymond was in Grade 5, a friend mentioned that debate could be a great skill for kids to learn. But his school didn’t have a debate club, and I didn’t know much about it. Raymond had other interests at the time, so we didn’t pursue it."
It wasn’t until Raymond himself expressed a strong desire to study debate seriously that things changed. Two years ago, he joined Ascent Academy and began systematic training.
Since then, he’s not only earned impressive results in domestic and international tournaments, but also developed a deeper worldview through critical thinking and expression.
- IOF TOURNAMENT: Taiwan representative, Middle School PF Bronze Medalist
- 2025 Hsinchu WSC: 8th place speaker (8/400), 2nd place national champion team
- USAFO TOURNAMENT: High School / Middle School hybrid group quarterfinalist
Raymond’s growth goes far beyond competition results. It’s reflected in his understanding of global issues and his ability to solve problems.
Maggie shares:"We always hoped Raymond would read international news and stay informed about global trends, but habits like that can’t be forced. After learning debate, I noticed he started thinking critically about every topic. He became curious, asked questions, researched, and looked for evidence. Through that process, his global perspective naturally expanded."
One of the most inspiring outcomes is Raymond’s initiative to found the English Debate Club at Dominican International School.
The school didn’t have a debate club, but Raymond wanted to bring his passion and skills into his campus.
He took the lead and gathering the required documents, writing a proposal, finding a faculty advisor, and even designing his own teaching materials and training methods.
He successfully recruited members and filled the club, and is now working to expand its capacity.
Ascent founder Tyler :"Debate isn’t just about technique. it’s about reshaping how we think. Raymond’s story shows us that when students begin to ask questions and deconstruct the world, they’re not just learning debate. They’re learning how to become principled, discerning global citizens."
Debate may seem distant and technically demanding, but it offers far more than just sharper thinking. It’s a gateway for students to understand the world and interpret complex issues.
Raymond, a Grade 9 student at Dominican International School in Taipei, began his debate journey through a moment of unexpected inspiration.
His mother, Maggie, recalls:"Back when Raymond was in Grade 5, a friend mentioned that debate could be a great skill for kids to learn. But his school didn’t have a debate club, and I didn’t know much about it. Raymond had other interests at the time, so we didn’t pursue it."
It wasn’t until Raymond himself expressed a strong desire to study debate seriously that things changed. Two years ago, he joined Ascent Academy and began systematic training.
Since then, he’s not only earned impressive results in domestic and international tournaments, but also developed a deeper worldview through critical thinking and expression.
- IOF TOURNAMENT: Taiwan representative, Middle School PF Bronze Medalist
- 2025 Hsinchu WSC: 8th place speaker (8/400), 2nd place national champion team
- USAFO TOURNAMENT: High School / Middle School hybrid group quarterfinalist
Raymond’s growth goes far beyond competition results. It’s reflected in his understanding of global issues and his ability to solve problems.
Maggie shares:"We always hoped Raymond would read international news and stay informed about global trends, but habits like that can’t be forced. After learning debate, I noticed he started thinking critically about every topic. He became curious, asked questions, researched, and looked for evidence. Through that process, his global perspective naturally expanded."
One of the most inspiring outcomes is Raymond’s initiative to found the English Debate Club at Dominican International School.
The school didn’t have a debate club, but Raymond wanted to bring his passion and skills into his campus.
He took the lead and gathering the required documents, writing a proposal, finding a faculty advisor, and even designing his own teaching materials and training methods.
He successfully recruited members and filled the club, and is now working to expand its capacity.
Ascent founder Tyler :"Debate isn’t just about technique. it’s about reshaping how we think. Raymond’s story shows us that when students begin to ask questions and deconstruct the world, they’re not just learning debate. They’re learning how to become principled, discerning global citizens."