Four students competed in the DECA Nationals in Atlanta, Georgia last month: seniors Zayd Cartegena, Leo Gamboa, Jack Grunske, and Casey Lamb. They all participated in a variety of categories such as sports and entertainment marketing, hotel and lodging management, and the school store.
Although the students didn’t win or advance to the finals, they were pleased with the results of the competition.
“Although we didn’t finalize, I am proud of how I did because I got good practice with presentation skills and project management,” Gamboa said.
The Nationals featured 10,000 high school students across the country. The students not only were able to compete at the competition, but also were able to connect with other students from many states.
“The workshop was a very fun learning experience because not only did I get to do hands-on activities, but I also made new connections with other DECA students from all over the country,” Lamb said. “Over the trip, I had the chance to become close with a group of seniors from states including: Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, and Minnesota.”
The students also got to attend a Bruno Mars concert and a Braves game, while also getting to explore Atlanta.
“My favorite part of the trip was being able to explore Atlanta, especially going to the Bruno Mars concert, which was so much fun to watch,” Lamb said.
The students feel that DECA has also helped them prepare for future jobs or college.
“DECA prepared me for my future because it taught me how to speak in a more formal setting,” Grunske said. “It has made me more comfortable around adults and in high pressure situations.”
Advisor Jerad Galante is satisfied with how DECA went this year, and is proud of the leadership of the seniors.
“Given that our DECA Chapter has seen a number of leadership changes over the past three years, I thought our students did a great job. Our seniors were integral in taking a big leadership role to ensure that they got the most out of their DECA Season,” Galante said.
