Taryn Tucker, a vibrant sophomore at Idabel High School, has found her stride in the world of academic competition. “I became interested in joining the academic team because I have always been a part of activities where you went and competed against other schools academically, so I had already known about the academic team,” Taryn shared. “I became motivated to join the team because I love being able to compete, but also to have fun with classmates.”
This year, the team journeyed to Poteau for a competition, an experience Taryn found particularly memorable. “Traveling far distances like this, you will never know where or what kind of experiences you will have,” she recounted.
Taryn’s passion for English and American History shines through her involvement. “I enjoy these two subjects because in middle school, I would always go on competitions and take tests over American History, which allowed me to learn more about the subject,” she explained.
Preparation is key for Taryn, who diligently hones her skills through after-school sessions. “I usually prepare for competitions by having after school practices, where we will set up buzzing systems and go over old match questions.”
Being part of the academic team has not only enriched her academically but has also bolstered her confidence. “The academic team has helped my personal growth by giving me more confidence in answering questions in front of crowds,” Taryn added.
However, the road to success isn’t without its challenges. Taryn highlighted the mental agility required in competitions. “In competitions, you have to be quick to answer a question or someone else could buzz in before you,” she acknowledged. “Overcoming this challenge takes many practices on thinking faster.”
Through her journey with the academic team, Taryn has found inspiration for her future aspirations. “Being on the academic team has greatly influenced me to work harder for the goals that I want to reach in the future and to never give up when times get difficult,” she reflected. With dreams of attending college to become a veterinarian, Taryn’s dedication and passion are certain to propel her towards a future of caring for animals, fueled by her academic pursuits.
