Four years ago, Ashley Anna Meyer decided to try something new at the recommendation of a teacher.
Today, the Collegiate High School graduate credits that decision with helping her earn national acclaim for her speaking skills and a spot at New York University in the fall.
“I can’t say enough positive things about forensics,” the 17-year-old said. “I absolutely loved it.”
Forensics, Latin for explaining or debating, was a natural extension of Meyer’s long-standing passion for theater.
“She’s very, very talented,” said Charlie Williams, who coached Meyer’s forensics team at Niceville High School. “It was just incredible to watch her performing.”
Meyer said she will not formally continue with forensics in the future, but the skills she’s learned will serve her well as she pursues dual-majors of theater and economics.
After that, maybe it will be law school or drama therapy or maybe even politics. No matter the path, she said forensics will continue to play an integral role in her life.
“It definitely helped me to be able to go in and just give something my all,” she said.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Katie Tammen at 850-315-4440 or ktammen@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieTnwfdn.