On this episode of Discover Boston College, host George Kaparis ’27 sits down with Natalie Garayeva ’27 and Jacquovia Higgs ’27, co-presidents of the BC Mock Trial Program, to pull back the curtain on a competitive team that trains like a courtroom — and bonds like family. Hear how four equal “A” teams, an entirely student-run structure (no stacked teams, no external coach), and intense preparation weeks shape both performance and friendships. From the logistics of traveling coast-to-coast for invitationals, and a messy-but-memorable opening statement at Berkeley, this conversation shows how practice, grit, and laughter come together when the stakes are highest.
0:00 | Welcome to Discover Boston College with George Kaparis ‘27.
0:17 | Introducing Natalie Garayeva ’27 and Jacquovia Higgs ’27, co-presidents of Mock Trial.
0:55 | What is BC Mock Trial? — overview of teams, roles, and season structure.
1:25 | What makes BC Mock Trial unique?
2:13 | Team structure explained — names, culture differences across the four teams.
3:00 | How do they prepare for a tournament?
4:11 | Tournament formats — 1-2-1 and 2-2 structures; performing both prosecution and defense.
4:58 | Who are the judges?
5:16 | High-pressure memories — a real round at Berkeley: spilling a water bottle five minutes before an opening statement and pushing through.
6:48 | Another tournament highlight — flying across the country to Berkeley and winning first place (ballot-blind surprise).
7:43 | Building community — barbecues, team dinners, holiday parties, and studying together.
8:40 | What Mock Trial means to them.
9:24 | Travel and bonding elements of Mock Trial (and why those shared experiences matter).
10:17 | How to follow and get involved — Instagram, website, and upcoming events.
10:55 | Thank you for tuning into this episode of Discover Boston College!
Stay tuned for the latest updates on Discover Boston College, a Boston College Student Affairs and D100 Media podcast.
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