Every year, Elizabethtown College students compete at an annual regional competition of the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA), representing the college and flexing their legal expertise. This year was no different, and this cohort brought home some good news with them.
Unlike many schools that offer mock trial only as an extra-curricular, Etown provides the experience as a for-credit class. It is attractive to both legal studies majors and those in fields related to public speaking.
Nearly 20 Etown students competed at American University from February 15-16. Two competitors, sophomore legal studies major Kalen Tendo and junior public relations major Alison Carneal spoke with “The Etownian” about their experience.
Tendo described how the class began preparations last semester .
“None of us had ever competed in high school, so we were pretty new to the whole experience,” Tendo said. “It felt like we were figuring things out step by step.”
Both Tendo and Carneal described some nervousness entering this new experience, which was made easier with the help of their professor, adjunct instructor Chris Miller.
“Our instructor supported us from the first week of the school year and guided us to be as successful as possible,” Carneal said. “At the competition, he gave us advice between rounds and ran drills with us during our breaks to help us with what we struggled with. He also lightened up the mood when we were stressed by telling us other mock trial experiences that he had.”
Tendo served as the team’s captain and was given the chance to step into the role of a leader.
“My responsibilities were a mix of self-assigned tasks and things I delegated to the team,” Tendo said. “I set up meetings outside of class where we worked on case trials and strategies. I also worked closely with my team members, both individually and in groups, helping them refine their cross-examinations, direct examinations, and overall arguments.”
The competition was structured, beginning with a captain’s meeting and going into two rounds of trials. Mock trial rounds are very time-restrictive, with a format that includes 25 minutes for both teams openings, 25 minutes for the plaintiffs’ directs and 25 minutes for the defense’s cross examinations. After that, there’s a short break, then 25 minutes for the defense’s directs and 25 minutes for the plaintiffs’ cross examination. After another short break, each team gives their closing remarks.
Tendo, as captain, was the team’s go-to person.
“Overall, my role was to support my team, help them whenever they needed guidance, and make sure no one felt alone or unprepared,” Tendo said. “I wanted everyone to feel confident participating and make sure we were fully ready for the other team.”
The team was shocked during the awards ceremony where, on the last day, they received the Spirit of AMTA award.
The Spirit of AMTA award is given to teams that earn a perfect score from every opposing team that one faces, based on court demeanor and how they treat their competitors. It recognizes a respectful and considerate attitude throughout the competition.
“We didn’t even know that this award existed, but it felt really special,” Tendo said.“We were just focused on trying to win, but we also wanted to be as welcoming and considerate as possible, which is just how we naturally are. We even gave other teams materials like exhibits and trial books to help them out when they didn’t have the resources.”
Both Carneal and Tendo look back on the experience fondly and take pride in their accomplishments. “Walking away from this competition, I am excited for the next mock trial season,” Carneal said. “I also learned so many lessons that are applicable in all aspects of life including the importance of preparation, confidence, and most importantly staying kind and respectful even when you are under pressure.”
