Ames High Deca Ames, iowa

When I entered high school, I didn’t know what to do. Everyone else seemed to have friends already and knew where they belonged. Some students would join the football teams, etc. Other students would join Key Club, student council, and science olympiad. But I felt like she didn’t belong in any of those communities.

Luckily, at the Club fair, I was introduced to DECA. DECA is a program for students interested in business. This program prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to join because she didn’t know anyone in DECA. Luckily, one of my friends, Meiya, joined as well and we became partners for the upcoming competition.

The advisors were very supportive and helped me understand the material and how competitions were structured. DECA has shaped me into a leader and helped improve my public speaking skills. All the skills learned in this program can not only help you in business but also other aspects of your life. In these competitions, you get to meet new people from everywhere who are also working on the same things as you. You get to share ideas and learn from each other.

DECA is truly an amazing community and is welcoming to everyone.