by Taylor Massey
Just as almost every other activity, DECA has looked different in comparison to years past. Members competed in an online format by recording their speeches, presentations, and role plays in advance. However, Republic High School DECA still made the most of this year and had immense success. They participated in various competitions throughout the year, but they recently had the State Career Development Conference. In total, Republic had thirteen qualifiers to the competition.
One qualifier is Tanna Fulks, who placed first at state in Apparel and Accessories Marketing.
“Usually we have 10 minutes from the time we receive our scenario to the time we present our ideas in front of the judge to prepare. This year, the window was much longer and spread over several days,” she said. “We were all really disappointed that the State Career Development Conference was online. Usually we spend a whole weekend in Kansas City competing and attending events. Even though this couldn’t happen, I’m still extremely grateful that we even had the opportunity to compete.”
In addition to DECA’s accomplishments at state, they had seven students qualify to the International Career Development Conference (ICDC). This international conference will take place from April 19-23. It was originally scheduled to be held in Anaheim, California, but it will be held online as well.
As for the competition, Fulks said that as students advance, it progressively gets more difficult. “As we advance, the guidelines get stricter. The role-play competitors will have two hours from the time they receive their scenario to the time it’s filmed and uploaded.”
DECA is designed to help prepare high school students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management, but it also serves many other purposes. Besides competitions, they often hold school meetings and local events for members to participate in.
“Along with the business experience, we also have fun meetings, community outreach activities, and (usually) attend conferences and retreats. If you’re looking for a way to get involved and learn about the professional world, join DECA next year. It’s so much fun and the experiences you’ll have will prepare you for your future, no matter where you go or what you do.” Fulks said.
Results from the State Career Development Conference (* indicates international qualifier):
AAM: Tanna Fulks* – 1st place
BTDM: Kohl Brinkhoff*/Christian Clark* – 5th place
HTPS: Addison Butcher – Top 8
Gold School Based Enterprise: Tiana Greco*/Regan Jennings*
National DECA Chapter Campaign Winner THRIVE Level: Logan Bissey*/Halie Bermingham*
National DECA Community Service Campaign Winner THRIVE Level: Logan Bissey*/Halie Bermingham*
National DECA Membership Campaign Winner THRIVE Level: Austin Schiller/Ayden O’Connor/Kohl Brinkhoff