…I really would like to thank you [Valenda], the New Hampshire Bar Association, and the Bar Foundation for making my participation in mock trial possible.  As a sophomore student, this was my third year participating in the program, and each year I am amazed by how much I learn and all of the fun I am able to have simply by being on the team.

By far, mock trial is the most difficult thing I do.…  [I know] when I step into the mock trial practice room after school and especially into the courtroom, I will be faced with tasks and questions that require every ounce of my energy to complete….  Even though it’s tremendously difficult, I love having to think of something clever to say, and then on top of that, presenting my thoughts in a poised articulate manner.  Doing this is far more difficult than any math test, any science project, and even any field hockey game that I complete.  However, since the challenge is so great, the rewards are great as well….

Over the many trials I have [been part of] in the past three years, [my] feelings of nervousness [have] changed into excitement.  Trial days have become some of my favorite days of the year.  I’ve realized that the undivided attention one receives in a courtroom is not something to be afraid of….  Being in the courtroom really transforms me as a person.  I’m no longer the shy, smart girl in any given classroom; I am a confident force moving my way about the courtroom.  I deliver my questions and responses with passion, clarity, and determination….  Mock trial has given me confidence, poise, and conviction, but above the rest, it really is my greatest source of enjoyment.

…Maybe it’s because the program builds passion, integrity, and confidence, maybe it’s because the challenge is so great that everyone becomes supportive, maybe it’s because of the hundreds of hours we spend together, but out of the entire Souhegan High School population, no group of kids is tighter knit than the Gremlin Mock Trial Team.  From being a part of this team, I have met seven of the best friends I feel I will ever meet.  We encourage each other, provide constructive criticism, but most of all, we have a spectacular time…. 

I have really come to love the mock trial program and all of the excitement, challenge, growth, and friendships that have come along with it.  Attending the national competition early this May showed me that even though I have come a long way, I still have a long way to go.  Like all high school students I am thrilled to have another summer vacation, but I have to admit something a little less obvious.  I am even more excited for the next mock trial season to start in the fall…. Above all, mock trial has been my most influential experience, and I cannot thank you enough for that.

Sincerely,

Laurie Kellndorfer

Captain, Souhegan High School

Mock Trial Team 

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