From April 27 through 30, select students in DECA went to Anaheim, California for the DECA International Career and Development Conference (ICDC). The seven students who attended had all qualified at the state level back in March.
Students in DECA compete in marketing and business competitions while also participating in conferences and workshops. DECA teaches students the importance of business and marketing strategies through engaging activities. Students put their leadership and business skills to the test in a series of competitions at the conference. Other activities at the conference included a College/ Career Exhibit where students could see how the skills they were learning now can apply to their futures.
Students who participated were sophomore Alaina Plasmier, sophomore Sophie Webb, junior Maggie Salem, junior Maura Santelli, junior Jake Andrews, senior William Dunleavy, and junior Abby Graham.
In addition to competing, students enjoyed several Los Angeles-eccentric activities after the competition was over. “We went to Disneyland, Huntington Beach, the DECA Block Party, and so much more,” Plasmier said.
On top of that, students also enjoyed food from a west-coast fast food staple. “We went to the one and only In-n-Out!” Plasmier said.
A benefit of traveling so far for a competition was forming bonds with students from around the country. “We made tons of out-of state friends,” Plasmier said.
This trip was a good mix of fun and learning, and will be remembered for years to come.
Plasmier offered words of encouragement for students who might want to join the organization. “Join DECA to experience things you’ll never experience again!” Plasmier said.
