■ Miriam Pritschet

Grade: Junior.

Age: 16.

Art focus: Debate.

Adviser nomination: “Miriam is one of the top debaters in Minnesota. After finishing in the top 20 at nationals (National Forensic League National Speech and Debate Tournament) this summer, she has consistently excelled, placing in every tournament at which she has competed this year. Miriam is also an outstanding leader who uses her knowledge, experience and positive personality to help and inspire her teammates.”

Memorable fine arts achievement: Making it in the top 20 this past summer in the national debate tournament.

Other fine art activities: Brainerd Chamber Orchestra, where she plays the cello, mock trial and speech.

How does it feel to be in the Top 20 in nation in debate: “It was pretty exciting and I am looking forward to going this year because three of us are going. Nationals is held the first two weeks in June and this year it is in Birmingham, Ala. I’ve gone to nationals every year since I was a freshman. It’s intimidating, a lot of it depends on the judges and there are eight preliminary rounds. You just go and do your best and it’s fun.”

What is your strongest skill in debate: “I’m the best at coming up with arguments during the competitions. Also my fluency of speaking makes my arguments more compelling and helps a ton. I’ve been in debate since seventh grade.”

Biggest challenge in debate: “Researching or time management. I don’t like to do the research and the speeches are short and there is a lot of information so it’s tough to compile what you want in your speech.”

Favorite class: Psychology.

Artist most admired: Thomas Cole, an artist.

Favorite cartoon movie: “Aladdin.”

Favorite TV show: “30 Rock.”

Favorite book: “The Help.”

Favorite band: Juli.

Favorite restaurant: T.G.I . Friday’s.

Hobbies: Guitar, beading, hunting, watching TV and hanging out with friends.

Other activities/clubs: Students for Political Awareness, Key Club, karate and in the St. Andrew’s choir, where she sings, plays guitar, cello and sometimes the trumpet.

Parents: Dave and Anne Pritschet of Brainerd.

Honorable mention: Ashlee Hauble, junior, mock trial: ”This is Ashlee’s second year in mock trial. She is, once again, one of our lawyers and she has excelled at developing questions for her witnesses.”

— Compiled by Jennifer Stockinger, Staff Writer. Follow me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jennewsgirl.