Tami Betsil, who has been teaching at Wando for seven years, led Wando’s three South Carolina Econ Challenge teams to a sweep of the statewide competition April 5.
Betsil answered questions about the competition and her career in an interview with tribaltribune.org reporter Mackenzi NierDuffy.

What is the econ challenge?

“The University of South Carolina works with South Carolina’s Economic Council to host this challenge. Schools can create teams of four and take an online qualifying test. Then, they invite the top 10 scoring teams to USC to compete. We went to USC on econ day and [Wando’s teams] took a micro test, macro test and a group international current events test. After that, we went to a couple mini-lectures that professors there were hosting. One was over game theory and one was over carbon trading.”

How did the Wando teams place?

“They announce the top two scoring teams and it was two Wando teams. They went up against each other in a quiz bowl round. They also announced who came in third place and our third team came in third. So, we brought home all the trophies.”

Are you going to compete in a national competition?

“Yes. We took the national test on April 17. Based off of those scores, the national economic council invites the top scoring eight teams to New York to compete for first and second in the country. We are still waiting on the results for that.”

What is the key to your success?

“It’s the students. They’re the ones who made it happen. It’s their commitment and drive, not just this year, but for the past four years that has enabled us to come in first place.”

Did you always want to be a teacher?

“As a teenager, I knew I wanted to teach. It’s one of those professions where you know that you are meant to do that. It’s not for everyone.”

What’s your favorite part about teaching?

“My favorite part is when students are open to learning new things. They’re not trying to rush through the class period. They embrace new ideas and learn something different.”

What is your favorite place you’ve ever been?

“My favorite has been the Florida Keys. It’s beautiful there.”

What is your favorite food?

“I love salmon.”

How do you spend your time outside of school?

“I love to spend time with my family, try out new restaurants, and travel.”

Where is your favorite place to eat?

“I love eating brunch at The Palmetto Cafe. It’s so fun to eat there.”