Audrey Huang: A Journey of Challenges and Growth at the Kentucky Nationals

Audrey proudly showing her 3rd place award for Congress Debate at the Nationals in Kentucky!

First of all, congratulations to everyone for completing what seemed like an impossible mission! This trip to the Kentucky Nationals was full of invaluable experiences! It was a tremendous challenge for both students and parents, mentally and physically.

This was an in-person tournament, and everyone set out with excitement, leaving LAX as early as 5 or 6 in the morning! After a full day of long travel on Friday, the students, after a brief rest upon arrival, immediately dove into preparation, working until the early hours of the morning. Although the kids barely got four hours of sleep each night, I could feel that their passion for debate completely washed away their physical exhaustion.

After two years of online classes and virtual competitions, this on-site event lit up every student’s face with excitement. As a parent, I also witnessed the coaches’ enthusiasm for teaching! On the way to dinner right after landing, the coaches were already prepping the students. After dinner, they continued burning the midnight oil until 2 AM! If it weren’t for parents urging the kids to get some sleep, I think they might have stayed up all night. Furthermore, during the competition, the coaches were attentive to each student’s needs and offered timely support. After the first day of matches, they immediately got back to helping the kids prepare for the next day, working tirelessly until the early morning again.

I am truly grateful to Kudos for organizing all the details of this Nationals trip—booking flights, reserving hotels, arranging ground transportation, and having three coaches travel with the team. As a parent, it was eye-opening. Normally, when Audrey competes in online tournaments, I don’t get involved, nor have I ever actually listened to any of her rounds. This time, I had the chance to observe every single round, and I was deeply moved!

In addition, seeing how well the other Kudos kids performed was incredible! At their age, having such a level of understanding and expressive ability is truly beyond their years. There’s so much more I want to say, but most importantly, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude—thank you to Kudos for planning and nurturing the students every step of the way. Thank you to the coaches for their hard work in leading the team. And thank you to Kudos for bringing this group of kids together to grow as one.

Gloria Lu, Audrey Huang's Mom

July 2023