The DECA competition season kicked off on November 9 at UW-Whitewater. About 40 students accompanied first-year DECA advisor David Jacobs to the competition.
“I wasn’t here in past years, but I can say that this year we have some very committed officers and the biggest number of DECA members ever,” Jacobs said.
Last year DECA had lots of success at state and nationals, and many students enjoyed it which is what attracted more people to join the club.
“I joined DECA this year to try something new, but I’m most looking forward to the competitions. I know people who were on the team in past years and I know they had lots of fun at competitions,” freshman Sam Eggert said.
Jacobs has a business career background, and is also the business teacher here at GHS. He is going to be available to coach students as they prepare for competitions due to his large knowledgeable background. No matter what Jacobs is working on, both DECA and teaching business classes contribute to helping students learn and grow.
“My role is to support and advise the DECA officer team in achieving their goals for the program. I do work behind the scenes to ensure the field trips and key events are well organized and adhere to school policies and procedures for the safety and enjoyment of the participating students,” Jacobs said.
DECA competitions are explained by the officers to be super fun but very competitive. They have helped the club members to build friendships, and practice and demonstrate good communication skills. The DECA team has been doing practice tests, project talk, and letting people explore different categories of competitions in order to get into the competition season mindset.
“My biggest takeaway was definitely being more extroverted, whether that’s public speaking, conversational skills, or even just putting yourself into situations that benefit you has definitely been the main thing I’ve learned since joining DECA,” junior Zayd Cartagena, Vice President of brand management said.
A few things students in DECA do is promote the school store. They brainstorm new ideas and designs for school swag, as well as waking up early or staying late after school to work in the store.
“Being a part of an organization like DECA has paid off for me because it has taught me leadership skills, and helped me make new friends,” junior Jack Grunske, Vice President of school store promotions said.
