Easton High School students and recent graduates attended the 64th National Junior Classical League Convention at Troy University in Alabama, along with 1700 other Latin students from around the nation. The convention, which took place at the end of July, includes groups of students from all across the country coming together to celebrate the classic languages of Latin and Greek with contests, competitions, lectures, and other activities throughout the week. A total 21 students represented Maryland and made their mark in Alabama. The Maryland “novice” team placed 10th in the country in Competitive Certamen, a game of fast recall of facts about classical civilizations and its peoples, languages, and cultures.Several Maryland students placed nationally in events such as academic testing, essay writing, escape rooms, spirit competitions, talent shows, art contests, and sports.
Each year, students who attend the convention come home not only with their impressive prizes, but with a higher understanding and love for the classics and new friends from all around the state and across the country. “I strongly believe that what made Nationals special this year was the friends that I made,” said Natasha Panduawawala, the Maryland Junior Classical League President. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to bond with and create a whole new family,” added Kaitlyn Tilley, a rising senior at Easton High.
Studying the classics can be very challenging, so it’s wonderful when hard-working students are able to expand their knowledge and understanding in a favorite subject over the summer. This opportunity is enhanced by being exposed to life on a college campus and gaining experience in leadership and teamwork in a friendly, positive environment.
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