Focus your Future with DECA

2012-02-02

When I was five, I wanted to be a teacher. When I was 13, I wanted to be a history professor. When I was 16, my heart was set and I believed I would become the next leading fashion designer. All of these careers are attainable and admirable in their own way but now that I am 18 I have found that my future looks a lot different from when I was five, 13, and 16.

My future changed when I joined DECA. You may often hear about how DECA positively influenced many of its members. Why wouldn’t you? It is an organization that strives to build future leaders and gives its members the tools to achieve great feats. What I found is that, in my first year of membership in DECA, I was drawn in by the travel opportunities and a chance to get a little competitive. Three to four years later I have undergone a transformation. I am more confident, giving me the ability to deliver speeches in front of hundreds of students (although I admit I do still get nervous). Entering high school I was quiet but now I find my hand rising before others to answer questions even when I have some doubt about the answer. DECA sparked this confidence that was hidden in me and has given me the courage to inspire others.

Not only have I gained more confidence, I have also developed a desire to become more involved and find new ways to use my talents. Recently, I have been on the hunt for summer internships. With each internship listing come a set of job requirements and skills that each employer would like their prospective applicants to possess. Strong communication skills, ability to lead, willingness to communicate with a diverse group of people, problem solver - these are all skills they want and skills that I have because of DECA! I have learned subjects such as marketing, writing techniques, etc. in class but without confidence, motivation, and an interest in learning more, I would not consider myself an asset to any company. My experience is proof that DECA does prepare members for their future; but I would not be here if I had not seized the opportunity.

Now that I have turned 18, have started my spring semester of my freshman year in college, and have had the amazing experience to serve as NARVP, I am ready to take on a career in Communications whether it be public relations or journalism. I am confident that I have the skills to be successful in whatever job I acquire and that I can bring fresh ideas to the table.

If you have not yet taken anything from my DECA experience, I’d like to leave you with this thought: no matter how many advantages you are given in life, no matter how many great qualities you build, the only way you can be successful is if you don’t let your fear of failing keep you from going to the top. Know that, as a DECA member, you have been given the chance to develop skills - but you have reached all your goals because you believed in yourself.

Step out of your comfort zone. It will be unnerving and exhilarating and you will find that is when you will be most surprised by your ability—unlock it.