Melissa Tejeda and Hannah Chand stood at the front of a tense room, awaiting their results. Not only had they traveled to San Bruno, but it was the last competition of the year. For Tejeda, a graduating senior, it was also her last opportunity to win first place as a Barking Bulldog.
Making it to the final round was an accomplishment in itself, as the competition combined two categories leading to far more competitors than anticipated. Similar to a reality show, the finalist rankings are announced in descending order. As each duo team gets called, they receive their award and return to their seats.
When they reached third place, Chand and Tejeda looked at each other, surprised that only three teams were left. For Chand and Tejeda, it took a moment for the realization to set in.
The win brought a rush of pride and emotion. The event highlighted competitors William Setser, Tedejo and Chand, who took home third place in Poetry Interpretation. Rhiannon Genilla was named the top speaker for the International Public Debate Association IPDA format debate and was awarded second place after advancing to the silver medal round. Tejeda and Chand won second place in duo interpretation, and Chand also took home 3rd place in poetry interpretation.
Chand finished as the second speaker in the division, and Valencia was fourth. Will Setser placed third in extemporaneous speaking, and Jackson Simons placed third in impromptu speaking.
