By Elizabeth Contreras
VYPE: What grade are you in and how long have you been a part of the academic team?
James Durst: I am currently a senior in high school; I have been a part of the academic team every year since 4th grade.
VYPE: What initially drew you to join the academic team?
JD: I initially joined the academic team because I was utterly bored in elementary school and wanted a place where I could flex my brain.
VYPE: What is your favorite category to compete in?
JD: I enjoy playing the OSSAA style of bracket—they emphasize higher-level mathematics and science, and lightning rounds are entertaining to play as a team.
VYPE: How do you contribute to your team outside of competitions?
JD: I currently serve as our Varsity team captain. Besides the regular captain’s roles in competitions, I lead weekly practices and help manage my team members.
VYPE: What is the most rewarding part of being on the academic team?
JD: The most rewarding part of Academic Team is that I can see the best version of myself. It helps to know that in any situation, I can be that person—the one who can manage whatever situation is thrown at him with efficiency and kindness.
VYPE: What skills have you gained from participating in academic competitions?
JD: I have learned skills such as performing under pressure and handling tough situations with modesty and respect, but the most important skill is a soft skill: learning how to deal with perfectionism.
VYPE: Who has influenced your academic growth the most?
JD: My teachers have influenced my academic growth the most. Mrs. Andrea Carpenter—my Spanish teacher, Academic Team coach, and the person who nominated me for this piece—has shown kindness and love to every student she encounters.
VYPE: If you could give one piece of advice to a new team member, what would it be?
JD: You will not be good your first year. The game is designed around topics you’ll learn later in high school. Stick with it.
VYPE: How has being on the academic team shaped your goals for the future?
JD: Academic Team makes me want to be social. It reminds me that there are people like me in the world—people who love knowledge and may misstep socially now and then.
