The Road to Salt Lake City

2012-01-22

The spring semester has started and for Collegiate DECA members it is the start of the competition season. Instead of the Super Bowl and the Final Four, our minds are thinking of how great it will be to hold the 1st place plaque on stage at ICDC. That’s Collegiate DECA’s Super Bowl. That’s our chance to put all our hard work on display and to show what we can accomplish.

But how do we get prepared for our chance in the spotlight? By attending the spring competitions in your state first and foremost. Everywhere in Collegiate DECA, states and providences are gearing up for regional competitions and state/providence competitions.

Regional competition is the first step in seeing where you stand and where you still need improvement. This is also the perfect chance to get that potential member active in Collegiate DECA in a relaxed setting so that they are eased in and can see how Collegiate DECA can help them prepare for the business world.

State/providence competition is the next step on our journey. Here is that chance to make tweaks in your game plan to ensure that you are on track and ready for ICDC. The competition is stiffer and the judging is harder, but you get the feedback you need to Aspire Higher and reach that stage at ICDC.

ICDC, our Super Bowl, all your hard work, long hours, and endless practice sessions all lead to this. Here are a few items to remember to ensure that you have a great ICDC:

Have confidence in yourself. You have put in the practice, so now put your best foot forward.
Help others to prepare - whether it is helping them practice or set up for their competition, the joy you get helping someone succeed is a big part of being a professional.
Network and make friends. The people you meet at ICDC may be your contact for that perfect job you have been looking for.
Above all, - win, place, or show, - learn from your experience and share it with those who couldn’t make it this year.

I wish you all the best of luck on your road to Salt Lake City. I look forward to seeing you at ICDC in April.

Ronald Schoolcraft
Vice President
Collegiate DECA
ronaldschoolcraftvp@gmail.com