FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Brookdale Community College Forensics Team
(Also known as the “BCC Speech Alliance”)
1. What is Forensics?
Forensics refers to intercollegiate Speech competition. It consists of two distinct areas: “Debate” and “Individual Events”.
Debate involves the examination, analysis, and reasoned argumentation of a particular issue or topic. There are several forms of debate including Lincoln-Douglas Debate and Parliamentary Debate.
The individual events include a variety of traditional public speaking formats including: Informative speaking, persuasive speaking, after dinner speaking, rhetorical criticism, and impromptu speaking, as well as the oral interpretation of poetry, prose, and drama.
2. What does the Forensics Team do?
The team represents Brookdale Community College at regional, national, and international Speech and Debate tournaments. Students train throughout the year under the supervision of the coaching staff in preparation for intercollegiate competition. The team also performs on campus and in the community at select charitable events.
3. Who is eligible to join the team?
All BCC students in good academic standing are eligible to participate. However, only those adequately prepared for competition will be included on the varsity travelling team. Those who still need to further develop their skills will have the opportunity to do so under the guidance of the coaching staff.
4. Do I have to be an experienced public speaker?
No. We offer you a chance to get that experience BEFORE entering your chosen profession. More important than experience is the desire to work hard learning and developing your skills. If you are willing to work, we can provide the training necessary for success in competition and beyond.
5. What are the benefits of being on the Forensics squad?
Team members are trained in the public communication skills required for professional success in many fields. Students will learn how to conduct quality research, think critically, and express their ideas with power and style. Anyone considering a career in politics, education, law, acting, sales, or any field demanding strong communication skills will receive invaluable experience and marketable skills. Other benefits include extensive travel, including international travel, and networking with some of the finest students and communication scholars in the country.
6. How much time must team members devote to the team?
This will vary depending upon your level of commitment. Students should be prepared to commit ten hours per week, not including travelling and actual competitions. This includes time spent researching, writing, and practicing delivery as well as team meetings and one-on-one consultations with the coaching staff. You must also be available to travel on weekends during semester.
7. Who do we compete against?
We compete against 2 and 4-year colleges and universities from throughout the country. The college pays almost all of your travel expenses.
8. How do I get involved?
Anyone interested in joining the team, or learning more about forensics should contact Dan Leyes (phone 732-224-2530 or email: dleyes@brookdalecc.edu) or stop by the forensics team office in Larrison Hall, room 301.
