Academic Decathlon is back for the 2025-2026 school year, focusing on gaining knowledge on topics like literature, science, art, economics and more.
Club captain Hannah Suydam (12) said “Being a part of an academic decathlon means taking initiative to further oneself academically and become more knowledgeable on various topics.”
Students learn to be responsible and push themselves to their full potential, even studying for competitions outside of club meetings.
Club advisor Ms. Terhardt said “Academic Decathlon benefits students by one, providing them with a sense of community and two, giving them an opportunity to learn on their own terms without the structure of a class.”
Academic Decathlon is a great chance for students to enjoy learning in a new environment and find interests in places they would not otherwise explore. Members of Academic Decathlon are a hard working group of students seeking knowledge and using teamwork. The club is open to anyone interested and welcomes students of all levels.
Ms. Terhardt said “Regardless of your grade point average and classes you take, it’s a good place to have fun and learn. We so often conflate GPA with level of intelligence but it’s not true.”
Many classes at ANHS are considered to be more advanced, but smart students are found in all levels of courses. Academic Decathlon helps scholars find a place to show off their talents and have collaborative efforts to soar outside the classroom.
Every student deserves the chance to learn in an effective way for them and support one another as peers.
Aside from the competitive aspect, Suydam mentions “Members have the ability to showcase all academic strengths, not just test taking.”
Academic Decathlon prepares students to think quickly on their feet and in high pressure situations. Students are challenged to stay calm under stressful situations while answering questions efficiently. They build a strong foundation in public speaking and relying on their team for support and encouragement.
Meetings are held every Monday after school in Room 410 for an hour and a half. Academic Decathlon is made up of a committed group of teachers and students who strive for academic growth within the club and classes.
Last season, they won thirty-seven medals and 1st place in the third division and hope to keep up the momentum this year.
Suydam stated “I hope we can take home more medals and win first place in our divisions again this year!”
Members of Academic Decathlon form strong friendships with one another and gain a deeper level of connection with teamwork at competitions. Ms. Terhardt is instrumental in their consistent victories and ensures the club is fun as well as educational. They are driven in following their past wins with more success and make this year even more memorable.
