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.
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!