We caught up with Joseph Ellis as the academic team prepares for another big competition. This year, Ellis returns as team captain.

VYPE: Joseph, what grade are you in and what is your favorite subject? 

Joseph Ellis: I am a senior and my favorite subject is Chemistry.

VYPE: As a member of the academic team, what do you do to prepare for competition? 

JE: Knowing the main competition categories allows me to pick out the topics I’m weak on; studying these concepts using online tools makes for great preparation.

VYPE: What subjects have you worked the most in while preparing for this season? 

JE: This season studying up on current events- specifically the names of political leaders in the news- has been a main focus point for me.

VYPE: What do you enjoy most about your teammates on the academic team? 

JE: I love that each of my teammates have certain unique topics that they are remarkably talented in. Having teammates with exceptional varied skills makes for a strong ideal team to compete with.

VYPE: As captain, what are some of your responsibilities? 

JE: As captain I must know each of my teammate’s skill sets to decide their substitutions. Along the same lines I am responsible with picking our bonus round topics; I must choose a topic that fits my team’s intellect best but also holds the easiest questions.

VYPE: What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 

JE: Going out to bowl, play basketball, or play football with my friends is my favorite way to spend free time. I also enjoy playing with my dog and driving around town when I’m not hanging out with friends.

VYPE: What are your plans for life after high school? 

JE: I hope to attend a top college where I can study in biomedical engineering leading into medical school. Past education my dream occupation is being an orthopedic surgeon.

VYPE: Tell us about this photo. What did you do to grab this trophy?

JE: The trophy I’m holding is from Southmoore’s academic team scholastic competition last year as SWOSU where we placed 1st overall.