One of the most exciting parts in my marketing world is competing at DECA state every year. After a full semester of preparations, it makes or breaks your project. This year, I competed in the Community Service Project with my partner Reed Reynolds. Together we raised $10,909.37 for special needs playground equipment at two local elementary schools.
For our competition, we wrote a 30 page paper, and took part in a 15 minute presentation at the event. In total, we created 14 events with our start up non-profit titled "Inspiring to Include". We partnered with Burrus and Station Camp Elementary to raise over $5,000 as our biggest source of income. Besides our events, we received generous donations from community members and local businesses.
The actual competition factor went great. Reed and I rehearsed our presentation multiple times to prepare ourselves for the nerve racking event. In front of the judge, we kept our emotions under control and executed a performance better than our practices. It is personally one of the most exciting parts of being involved with high school DECA. Being able to be in charge of your own outcome makes it put all the pressure on yourself, but determination can make a huge difference. Being driven to make it to nationals is what kept me going through all of the frustrations that came along with the project.
In the end, Inspiring to Include placed 3rd in the state, losing 1st by 2 points. Reed and I will compete on April 22nd at the National DECA level, hoping to place top 20 in the world.
I hope hearing about the excitement of the DECA state competition makes more people join the amazing club.
That is amazing how much money you raised for the playground equipment! I am inspired by all your hard work.
ReplyDeleteGood for you. DECA conferences are challenging, but they are also great fun. Well done.
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