CINCINNATI, Ohio-Thirteen-year-old Emily Castilla is preparing for the preliminary round of the 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee, inspired by her older brother’s participation in the competition in 2019. Emily spends an hour each day studying 100 words, using a notebook for reinforcement.
She remains confident and excited about the competition, emphasizing the camaraderie among participants. While aiming to win, Emily values the friendships she will make and sees the experience as valuable for personal growth. She encourages other students to practice spelling, highlighting the fun and natural progression that comes with dedicated practice.
