Sophomore finds confidence through Quiz Bowl

Buzzing in his response, sophomore Jameson Isaacsen correctly answers a question at Quiz Bowl practice. According to Isaacsen, Quiz Bowl is a major part of his identity.

“I went to my first competition and discovered that by giving myself something to do, other than just sitting around,” Isaacsen said, “I was much happier than I had been in a long time.”

Since getting involved in an activity outside of school that he can succeed in, Isaacsen said he has been a more positive person as a whole.

“I’m a lot more driven now to succeed in what I do,” Isaacsen said. “I [now] have some goal that I am working towards and that will bring me happiness.”

Quiz Bowl coach Mary Beth Mattingly has seen Isaacsen’s confidence rise significantly since he joined Quiz Bowl.

“He’s a very energetic young man,” Mattingly said, “and I think he’s found a place where he feels he can do very well in, and it gives him an extracurricular activity that is meaningful.”

According to him, Quiz Bowl succeeds because of Mattingly, who has been the coach since the school opened.

“I think it would be different without [Mattingly],” Isaacsen said. “[She] really did help solidify [my growth] by being an excellent coach and really encouraging me to go all out and try as hard as possible. [Quiz Bowl has] really showed me something to strive towards and to be better at.”