From the Green Hill Round Robin in Texas to the Damus Hollywood Invitational in Los Angeles, Rahul Mulpuri (12) has traversed the nation participating in debate tournaments. Whether it’s a small-scale local competition or a high-profile event such as the Tournament of Champions (TOC), Rahul always strives for success. However, beyond the thrill of winning, he sees debate as a means to delve into the intricacies of national and global issues.

“Debate’s impact carries long past,” Rahul said. “The critical thinking skills, the research and the ability to think on your feet all are very important skills that people ought to learn. Debate has helped me get a head start on that.”

Developing these skills through his years of debating has earned Rahul numerous accolades at tournaments. In his junior year, he finished among the top four Lincoln-Douglas debaters at the TOC. Competing at such a high level, Rahul learned to proactively seek improvement and adapt to new environments.

“I remember feeling very intimidated, but every round I progressed in the elimination, I realized that there isn’t an outside boundary between me and these ultra-great competitors,” Rahul said. “If I wanted to be, I could become one of them. That mindset shift helped me.”

Within the world of debate, Rahul’s distinctive approach to crafting arguments and researching new theories sets him apart.

“The way that he did well was by being more inventive and creative and exploring different types of arguments,” upper school debate coach Greg Achten said. “Because of that, he really succeeded. One of his strengths is that he’s willing to try new things.”

One way Rahul discovers new perspectives is through the personal connections he forms with other competitors, which he views as one of the most rewarding parts of debate. He credits his teammates for serving as his motivation and support and extends gratitude to his competitors.

“My teammates are the reason I turned to debate,” Rahul said. “They keep me motivated because I know that there will always be people supporting me or making the tournament interesting.”

Rahul’s inquisitive nature extends beyond his passion for debate and into his everyday conversations with those around him. This trait is evident in his interactions with both friends and teachers, where he actively engages in discussions and seeks to learn from others.

“In a social setting, Rahul is generally a conversation starter, talking about whatever comes to his mind, whether it be about the song he’s listening to or something he found on social media,” close friend Rishi Cherukuri (12) said. “He’s always able to spark a discussion when he’s in a group.” 

Rahul’s engagement with the community extends beyond his personal relationships and into his role as a mentor and coach. As an experienced senior debater, Rahul coaches younger debaters, providing guidance and support to help them improve their skills. His own love for debate fuels his drive to help others, a process he finds immensely fulfilling.

“I really enjoy helping others and mentoring these debaters,” Rahul said. “I’ve started to take on a greater initiative in helping coach and mentor these debaters, which is something I find really rewarding for me because it’s one of the things I can do to make an impact.” 

Rahul exhibits his care for others towards his teammates as well. Longtime friend Muzzi Khan (12) finds that the moments he shares with Rahul are always enjoyable.

“Rahul’s always a familiar face and someone that’s enjoyable to be around at tournaments,” Muzzi said. “He makes sure to cheer people up after tough rounds, and he’s also very well-spoken and clear in what he’s trying to say.”

Rahul’s journey as a debater has been a transformative one, starting from his humble beginnings as a middle school debater to becoming a national competitor and mentor. Along the way, Rahul has found various ways to broaden his view of the world and guide others around him to success. These experiences have shaped his ever-evolving journey and mindset, one of the most important takeaways he carries with him today.

“When I started to think less of ‘I’m going to be super intimidated and scared’ and more of  ‘I am part of the competition, and I shouldn’t let other people intimidate me,’ that mindset shift helped me become a lot more successful overall,” Rahul said. “You should always recognize the privilege you have, regardless of whether or not you can attain more or you wish for more. Think of yourself in different ways.”