FPD Senior Zoie Burnsed Honored with Virginia Josey Scholarship at Georgia Mock Trial Law Academy | FPD Senior Wins Virginia Josey Scholarship at Mock Trial Academy

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FPD Senior Zoie Burnsed Honored with Virginia Josey Scholarship at Georgia Mock Trial Law Academy

 

When FPD senior Zoie Burnsed stepped into the Georgia Mock Trial Law Academy, she didn’t expect to leave with one of the program’s top honors. But by the end of the weekend, she had not only sharpened her courtroom skills—she was also awarded the Virginia Josey Scholarship, a recognition given to outstanding participants who demonstrate leadership and excellence in mock trial. 
 
FPD senior Zoie Burnsed at Georgia Mock Trial Law Academy
Zoie attended the academy with a clear purpose.

I really hoped that I could learn techniques to bring back to the FPD mock trial team, as well as learn how to better teach middle school students within the middle school mock trial club.

The academy wasn’t easy. Students were challenged to prepare and present opening statements, examinations, and closing arguments on the spot.  Zoie admitted, 

Honestly, it was incredibly nerve-racking, I usually work for months on each, refining and memorizing, so it was difficult to present such a raw version. However, it allowed me to better learn to receive constructive criticism and improve early on."

FPD student wins scholarship for leadership in mock trial”

When Zoie’s name was called for the Virginia Josey Scholarship, she was stunned.

I was truly shocked, as I was with a group of some of the best mock trial-ers in Georgia. I never thought I would get it, so I just reminded myself the whole weekend to focus on learning and improving my skills. This recognition meant to me that I was qualified to be there, and it showcased how much my skills had improved over the course of the weekend.

High school student presenting at mock trial academy

 Zoie credits Dr. Alvarez as one of her greatest encouragers.
“She really pushed me to do law academy,” Zoie shared. “She knew how much it could help me, even though I didn’t at the time. I can always come to her about anything, even beyond mock trial, and she’s just a wonderful encourager to me.”

When asked what advice she would give to others considering mock trial or law academy, Zoie didn’t hesitate:

Just try it out and give it 100%! Mock trial can truly improve your skills way beyond the courtroom itself. It has taught me to speak up, ask questions, think on my feet, and memorize quickly. Without mock trial, I don’t believe I would be as confident within myself, and it ultimately has taught me the value of hard work. I would say that mock trial and especially law academy is a commitment, but ultimately you won’t regret the long-term benefits it gives you.

At FPD, we are proud of Zoie for her dedication, courage, and leadership. Her achievement at the Georgia Mock Trial Law Academy is not only a personal victory but also an inspiration to her peers. By giving her best and leaning into challenges, Zoie is a shining example of what it means to grow in faith, confidence, and excellence.