My parents are making me go to the school debate club even though I don't want to. How do I convince them to let me not go?

May I respectfully suggest that in this particular situation, your parents have a good point?

Let me give you some completely unsolicited advice. I'm just over 50 years old, and I have had a relatively successful life. I have a degree in computer science, and did my first startup at 26. I've learned a lot of things along the way.

And...

The single most useful skill that I ever learned was how to debate and speak in public. I learned this in a public speaking / debating class when I was in Grade 10 (age 15).

I promise you, it will be uncomfortable at first. But as you become more comfortable, you will start to think on your feet and structure compelling arguments.

Just to prove that I am not blowing smoke, see Scott Welch's answer to What are some subjects one should self-study that can be applicable and helpful in the fields of economics, finance, business, and computer science?

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Scott Welch on Quora:

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