Senior Ella Schrader believes in going out of her comfort zone. She has been in speech since freshman year, and this year is no different, as she plans to achieve big goals this season.

“My goal for the season is to have a successful season for all of the people involved, with lots and lots of State and All State nominations,” Schrader said.

Schrader has always looked forward to this time of year, and she loves the opportunity to improve upon her speech related abilities. Schrader also always looks forward to working with others when she participates in group speech. In addition to group speech, Schrader is also in individual speech.

“I’ve been in (group) improv, one act, ensemble, and reader’s theater. For individual, I’ve done improv, storytelling, public address, prose, and after dinner speaking,” Schrader said.

She is not only looking out for her own peers, but every Xavier participant.

“Underclassmen in speech, put in the hard work to be awesome, but make sure you can have fun with it too. If you’re not having fun, something’s wrong,” Schrader said.

Schrader recommends that everyone should try speech for the experience, the friendships, and to get out there and try something new.

“It’s a good way to branch out and experience new things and get used to getting out of your comfort zone,” Schrader said.

She is looking forward to the first speech contest of the season on January 19 in Monticello, Iowa.