DECA Direct by DECA Inc.

THE MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2012

THE

STAGE

IS SET

Majors: • Accounting • International Business and Economics • Management • Marketing • Pharmaceutical Business

Vicki Moga Stow, Ohio Internship: Marketing and Communications intern at SummaCare, Inc., Akron, Ohio

Distinctive features • 100 percent placement rate in accounting; 94 percent overall placement rate • $58 million invested in student scholarships and aid • 100 percent internships in the college of business • A degree with one of the highest returns in investment in the nation Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the highest and most sought-after accreditation for business programs in higher education. One of the best business schools in the world.

MY PASSION...

The James F. Dicke College of Business Administration is a proud national sponsor of DECA!

CREATING SOLUTIONS Scan with your smart phone and Apply Now for FREE!

DISCOVER [YOUR] TRUE NORTH.

I STUDY ADVERTISING DESIGN AND MARKETING

The James F. Dicke College of Business Administration

EDITORIAL Publisher Edward Davis Editor Christopher Young Editorial Committee Jeff Collins, Shirlee Kyle, Sandra Tucker Advertising Cindy Allen Art Direction and Design Chuck Beatty

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2012

DECA NATIONAL OFFICERS President Morgan Thompson North Atlantic Region Vice President Emily M. Socha Central Region Vice President Christine O’Neil Southern Region Vice President Jordan Robinson Western Region Vice President Victoria Caña

Anything is possible GET MORE DECA ONLINE

Collegiate DECA NATIONAL OFFICERS President Elsa Tavares Vice President Demi Hall Vice President Michael Pham Vice President Fidelmar Rivera, Jr. Vice President Jessica Tormey

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Jacklyn Schiller President-elect Jim Brock Secretary Lynore Levenhagen Treasurer Marsha Bock Members Mary Peres, Ev Vaughan, Dave Wait NAB Chair Ken DiSaia Ex-Officio Members Edward Davis, LeAnn Dinsdale, Roger Glenn, Wayne Kutzer

EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE DECA Direct Attn: Editor 1908 Association Drive Reston, Virginia 20191-1594 deca_direct@deca.org

SUBSCRIPTIONS & CHANGE OF ADDRESS DECA Direct Circulation 1908 Association Drive Reston, Virginia 20191-1594

Chapter Buzz

Features DECA is going to Change Your Life Embrace DECA’s guiding principles this year.

Tech Tools to Help Your Chapter Thrive Get savvy with five social media tools.

Join the Movement Give back to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Be The Total DECA Chapter Earn recognition for your chapter.

DECA Direct (ISSN 1080-0476) is published four times each year—September/October, November/December, January/February and March/April. Copyright ©2012 by the Distributive Education Clubs of America, Inc., 1908 Association Drive, Reston, Virginia 20191-1594. All rights reserved. Annual non-member subscription rate is $5.00. Periodicals postage paid at Herndon, Virginia and additional mailing offices. $1.00 of membership fee goes toward subscription to DECA Direct, a publication of DECA, (USPS 566-200), Volume 1, Number 1. Postmaster—Send form 3579 for change of address to: DECA Direct, 1908 Association Drive, Reston, Virginia 20191-1594.

3 5 6 27

Can you pass the test?

8 11 14 17

Selecting a Competitive Event For You

Apply your knowledge and skills to benefit you.

Meet your DECA National Officers Engage with the high school officers on Twitter!

Meet your Collegiate DECA National Officers

22 24

Your collegiate officers are ready to thrive!

ON THE COVER: The stage is set for DECA members to thrive as shown in this illustration created by PDC Productions’ Matt Drake. Watch the ICDC promo video at www.deca.org/events/icdc and learn more about PDC Productions, a DECA National Advisory Board member, at www.pdcproductions.com.

September–October 2012

DECA DIRECT

It’s about creating conversation. You’re reading history in the making. For the first time in 20 years, the organization’s magazine is taking on a new design, name and most importantly, a new concept. Meet DECA Direct, a new age magazine that now features both DECA and Collegiate DECA members. The new concept blends print and interactive content. You’ll notice more integration with social media, encouraging you to interact with authors on Twitter and leave comments on Facebook. You’ll eventually be able to read articles on a new DECA Direct interactive platform that allows you to watch videos, share articles through social media and create conversations with members from across the globe. You might be asking, “why?” The answer is simple. We’re now living in a digital age that promotes conversation as opposed to oneway communication. We want you to meet fellow members, learn about great ideas as they happen from chapters beyond your association and share your stories. Most importantly, we want your voice to tell your story. This issue is our first pass at our new design and new concept. It will be a work in progress throughout this year, so let us know what you think. In addition to the social media additions, we’re also making the magazine more visual and including questions at the end of each article. We welcome your comments to deca_direct@ deca.org, or tweet us using the #DECA hashtag. Your thoughts could show up on these pages in issues to come. Enjoy!

ED DAVIS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DECA INC.

Covers of DECA’s magazines show the progression of the publication through the years. The DECA Distributor debuted in 1947 followed by the launch of New Dimensions in 1981. After a name change to Dimensions and redesign in 1991, the newest publication—DECA Direct—unveils with this issue.

CHRISTOPHER YOUNG

EDITOR, DECA DIRECT @decachrisyoung

Which cover is your favorite? Take a photo and tweet it to @decainc. Be sure to tag it with #DECAthrowback. 2

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

CHAT

@decamorgant

TIMELINE September 1–25

Piper Jaffray Fall Online Survey

MDA Show of Strength

Stock Market Game begins

October 5

DeVry Innovation and Entrepreneurship Challenge deadline

Virtual Business Challenge I begins

Submissions due for January/ February DECA Direct

SBE Video Challenge deadline

Can you pass the test?

MORGAN THOMPSON | DECA NATIONAL PRESIDENT

November 1

Deadline for Honorary Life Membership Award and Outstanding Service Award Candidate Nomination

Did you see what that person just posted on Facebook?

ICDC T-shirt Design Contest begins

For almost every teenager, this is a phrase that gets passed around among friends nearly everyday. Whether we admit it or not, Facebook, Twitter and other social media are a huge part of our lives. It is the way we express what we feel, say what we like and tell who we are. Technology has taken us far, but with great technological power, comes great responsibility. Social media has helped us grow accustomed to wanting information and being able to find it in no time. This can be helpful, but it transfers to other parts of our lives. It gives us a desire for instant gratification. Last year in my psychology class, I learned about a Stanford University study that related to how people, especially of our generation, have a hard time waiting. For the study, kids were placed in front of a marshmallow and were told that they could eat the marshmallow, but if they waited they could have another marshmallow. Some kids instantly attacked the marshmallow as soon as the adult left the room, while others looked around to see who was watching. Some waited but eventually gave in. A very select few waited and received two marshmallows. Have you ever not wanted to wait to receive your reward? I remember going to my first conference and wanting so badly to win top awards, but I didn’t. I could have given up, but my persistence and ability to wait and work for my time gave me great rewards. While we all desire to accomplish our goals without pain, struggle and hardship, we have to work for what we get. My favorite part about DECA is that people don’t just get positions, awards and respect handed to them— they earn those things. As DECA members, we prepare ourselves to work hard to accomplish our goals. This holds true whether we are trying to build our chapters, run for leadership positions or win competitive events. The old saying, “The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it,” holds true. We always have complete control over our attitudes and how hard we want to work. An incredible opportunity presents itself, and you can THRIVE with DECA. Through participating in DECA’s competitive events, campaigns, corporate partner challenges, and social media, you will continue to create incredible experiences that you can only find in DECA. Whether you have seen the results yet or not, these experiences will reward you in the future. Maybe you will see the results when you are applying for a job, get elected to the leadership position you always dreamed about, or when you are standing on stage at ICDC holding that first place trophy as 15,000 of the most prepared, experienced, and professional students in the world cheer you on. So could you pass the marshmallow test? Can you work hard and wait for great results? Will you put in the time and effort to let DECA help you THRIVE this year?

DECA Month

September–October 2012

1–30 8–10

Innovations and Entrepreneurship Conference, Chicago, IL

12–18

Global Entrepreneurship Week

Online membership dues deadline

15–17

Western Region Leadership Conference, Seattle, WA

Virtual Business Challenge I ends

16–18

Central Region Leadership Conference, Detroit, MI The Ultimate DECA Power Trip Washington, DC

29–Dec. 1

CareerTech VISION 2012 (ACTE Annual Convention), Atlanta, GA

28–Dec. 2

New York Experience I New York City, NY

Community Service Campaign due DECA Month Promotional Campaign due Global Entrepreneurship Week Campaign due Membership Campaign due

DECA DIRECT

CHAT

@elsadecapres

TIMELINE October 10

Early-bird registration for Collegiate Leadership Academy

Initial Collegiate DECA online membership submission due date

Collegiate Leadership Academy registration and housing due

Submissions due for January/ February DECA Direct

November 1

Deadline for Honorary Life Membership Award and Outstanding Service Award Candidate Nomination

Anything Is Possible

ELSA TAVARES | COLLEGIATE DECA NATIONAL PRESIDENT

ICDC T-shirt Design Contest begins Strive for 25! Membership Campaign deadline

1–30

Collegiate DECA Month

12–18

The school year has started!

Global Entrepreneurship Week

It’s exciting to get our class schedules and find out who’s taking which classes. As we gear up for the year, this is the perfect time to think about our goals and steps to accomplish them. It all starts with an idea or a desire for something. For you it may be landing a cool job, buying your first car or getting all A’s. Take the first step by writing it down. Your personal, academic and professional goals will all have one thing in common—they should be S.M.A.R.T. goals. Keep them specific in nature, measurable in terms of how much or how little you wish to accomplish, attainable and reachable. Lastly, have a timeline to tie everything together. The 5 Ps James Baker said, “Prior preparation prevents poor performance,” and that takes planning. Think about competition. Do you get nervous at the thought of doing so? I did but then slowly but surely I began to relax, thinking about what I had practiced. I also relied on my knowledge, experience and the feedback from prior performances. Use what you already know to plan for your goals, and identify some of the things you may need or obstacles you may face while working towards your goals. Things like carrying an extra copy of your class schedule or a campus map may seem like “too much,” but are invaluable when you’re lost or have no cell phone reception. Stay ahead when you can, by arriving to class a few minutes early, or reading the text for the next class. It can pay off during that pop-quiz or unexpected times. Seek Wisdom When we face challenges or opportunities, we often learn something new by doing things differently than we have in the past. Throughout my life, I have had people whom I admire and trust to seek advice from. In my first marketing class, I wasn’t sure where to start. After class I asked my professor if he had examples of what he expected. He walked away and came back with a box full good and not-so-good examples. Identify those people who can help you. Whether they are friends, professors or co-workers, find out how these people have overcome their trials; their wisdom can offer you insight or a strategy for you to be able to do the same. Your Fashion Statement Last year, I read an article written by Claire Coker in which she said “confidence, it is the fashion statement everyone should make.” She is right; it’s the must have accessory of the century. The best wardrobe, résumé, or PowerPoint won’t get you past the door if your delivery is less than great. Believe in yourself and your talent, strive to do your best, and learn from situations where you may not have. Only you hold the key to your success and unlocking it can take you different directions, believe in your dreams, work hard, and then anything is possible. September–October 2012

Initial Collegiate DECA online membership dues payment due date

15–17

Collegiate Leadership Academy New York City, NY

29–Dec. 1

CareerTech VISION 2012 (ACTE Annual Convention), Atlanta, GA

DECA DIRECT

TRENDING

@decainc or @collegiatedeca

#DECA Twitter STREAM

AEastDECA: We had a blast @MDAWisconsin Green Bay taping at @wluk11—Can’t wait to raise more funds for MDA this year! Cailalee: #DECA is something you have to experience to fully understand … words just don’t do it justice. LoganFortier: To incoming members: This is a once in a lifetime opportunity! Take changes, get out of your comfort zone, and have no regrets.

DECA Direct host Isaac Robinson (CRVP 08–09) shares a laugh with Amy Gallimore, director of leadership at TRI Leadership, on the set of DECA Direct at the DECA International Career Development Conference in Salt Lake City. Watch this video and more at youtube.com/decainc.

Get more DECA online Watch videos that bring DECA to life in the classroom. www.youtube.com/decainc SAMPLE SAMPLE SAMPLE

DOWNLOAD sample competitive event role-plays and case studies. www.deca.org/competitions/highschool/ www.deca.org/competitions/college/

Learn more about your national officers. www.deca.org/about/nationalofficers/

Learn how to be successful in DECA’s competitive events. www.deca.org/issues/24/

Read more of DECA’s publications. www.deca.org/publications Leave your comments on DECA’s Facebook pages at facebook.com/decainc or facebook.com/collegiatedeca. 6

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

Lyssabear369: Love every moment of your DECA experience because it ends way too soon. Katherine_Ross1: One more year of school means only one more year of #DECA. ;’( Milvian: #DECA has provided me with the best experiences, great knowledge/skill & the best of friends from all over the country! OregonDECA: So great to hear from Morgan & Elsa our National Presidents pass on valuable member feedback to keep making @DECAInc #THRIVE this year! Shani_Robinson: I became a chapter and state officer all within 4 months! DECA has made me a better, confident, and strong individual. #DECA Angel_bribabi: I think as #DECA president I want to get more community service in my chapter! JTormeyKS: Seeing the excitement on the students faces when we talk about #DECA is awesome. They told me they want to win. They’re ready to #THRIVE!

with all of deca’s top performers It’s Your time to shine INTERNATIONAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE Photo courtesy of Travis Conklin

, CA

EIM ANAH

COLLEGIATE | APRIL 17-20, 2013 www.deca.org/events/colicdc

HIGH SCHOOL | APRIL 24-27, 2013 www.deca.org/events/icdc

DECa is going to change your life DECA’s Comprehensive learning program

Integrates into Classroom Instruction

Applies Learning

An integral component of classroom instruction, DECA activities provide authentic, experiential learning methods to prepare members for college and careers.

DECA members put their knowledge into action through rigorous project-based activities that require creative solutions with practical outcomes.

DECA Prepares the next Generation to be

Academically Prepared

Community Oriented

DECA members are ambitious, high-achieving leaders equipped to conquer the challenges of their aspirations.

Recognizing the benefit of service and responsibility to the community, DECA members continually impact and improve their local and broader communities.

Fast Facts DECA has two divisions—high school and collegiate.

+ = 215,000 MEMBERS

Our attributes and values:

Our official symbol is the diamond. DECA’s official colors are

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

and

competence innovation integrity teamwork

DECAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guiding principles help guide your participation in DECA on your quest as an emerging leader and entrepreneur.

Connects to Business

Promotes Competition

Partnerships with businesses at local and broader levels provide DECA members realistic insight into industry and promote meaningful, relevant learning.

As in the global economy, a spark of competition drives DECA members to excel and improve their performance.

Professionally Responsible

Experienced Leaders

DECA members are poised professionals with ethics, integrity and high standards.

DECA members are empowered through experience to provide effective leadership through goal setting, consensus building and project implementation.

? QUICK QUESTIONS

More than

$300,000 in scholarships are awarded annually to members.

With chapters in all 50 states and nine countries, DECA is truly global.

Which guiding principle is most important to you? Why? List one activity your chapter can participate in for each guiding principle.

Septemberâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;October 2012

DECA DIRECT

There is no denying that technology is becoming increasingly more prevalent in society. It’s hard to go anywhere in the world without seeing iPhones, QR codes, laptops and other fascinating gadgets. Thanks to these major developments in technology, we are able to do things much more efficiently and effectively than we have in the past. Here are five cool tech tools you can use to help you and your chapters THRIVE during your DECA year.

By Victoria Caña

DECA Western Region Vice President @victoriacana

September–October 2012

DECA DIRECT

Create Conversation: Post your answer to one of the questions below on Facebook and engage in meaningful discussion with DECA members from across the globe.

Prezi Prezi is a more visually engaging alternative to PowerPoint. The cloud-based software allows users to zoom in and out of their presentation, helping them explain their ideas. Rather than dividing their ideas into different slides, users can add them to one space called a canvas. They also have the ability to upload and edit anything from text to images to YouTube videos on their Prezi canvases. Once users create a path to connect their ideas, the canvas is ready to be presented online or offline from either a computer or an iPad. Overall, Prezi makes a great engaging, aesthetically pleasing tool for DECA competitive event presentations.

Hootsuite Since ambition is a characteristic of most DECA members, we tend to have an extremely booked calendar. This makes it difficult for us to consistently update our chapters or associations via Facebook and Twitter. That’s where HootSuite comes to help. HootSuite is a social media management system that allows users to schedule posts for their social media networks. HootSuite can integrate with Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, Foursquare, Mixi, MySpace, Ping.fm, and WordPress. If you have a weekly chapter meeting, simply schedule reminder Tweets months in advance, for example.

Glogster Glogster is the next generation of posters. It’s a social network that allows users to create free graphics blogs—or “Glogs.” The unique aspect of Glogster is that unlike typical 2-D posters, Glogs are interactive and engaging for your audience. Glogs are a great way to promote chapter events or initiatives in an appealing and interactive way through the web.

Yammer Known as “the first and most powerful enterprise social network,” Yammer is essentially Twitter for business people. Yammer brings the power of social networking to organizations in a private environment. It’s as easy to use as Twitter and Facebook, but it’s designed for organization collaboration, file sharing and information exchange. Yammer allows teams to communicate more efficiently and therefore complete assignments more effectively.

Google Hangout There are two parts to Google Hangout. The first allows users to host virtual meetings with up to ten people. The second part allows users to broadcast their entire conversation to the world. Google Hangout is not only a powerful medium to get your message across to a large audience, but it is also a great tool to work with others without physically being together.

? QUICK QUESTIONS Which of the social media tools mentioned in this article do you think will be most helpful to you as a DECA member this year? Why is taking advantage of social media tools like these important for your professional development? What is one way your chapter could use Google Hangout in a chapter activity or project? 12

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

Join Imagine being part of something big. Envision working toward a cause that can change the world. Now’s your chance by joining The Movement, a student-driven initiative to strengthen the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and DECA partnership by uniting chapter efforts to support MDA through community service or by raising funds for research. Whether your chapter wishes to engage in a fundraising activity, such as a bowl-a-thon, 5K walk/run or read-a-thon, that supports MDA or would rather perform community service activities, such as volunteering at an MDA Summer Camp, your chapter can be part of The Movement. Contact your local MDA office at www.mda.org/locate to see you how can help people in your community as part of The Movement. Simply put, you have the opportunity to be part of an organization-wide project that is going to have mind-blowing results. We have raised the bar on what people think students can accomplish, because it started with coming together on one project. The results speak for themselves: DECA can do big things. The Movement is simple to join. Sign up your chapter at www.ourmvmt. com by clicking the “join” tab. Fill out your name, email and advisor’s information and start your project! You will be able to see all the other chapters that have signed up, and you can update the website with projects you have completed. Once you have signed up, you will be receiving resources throughout the year to keep you on track and help you be successful! Plus, you can see what everyone else is doing to support MDA. Last year, The Movement united more than 20 states and engaged more chapters in helping MDA. Your National Officer Team is ecstatic about the potential for The Movement this year and is ready to support you along the way. We will be raising the bar for what the world thinks students like us can accomplish, and making the biggest impact on MDA that DECA has ever achieved in a year. 14

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

The Happiest Place On Earth This summer, I had the privilege of going to one of the happiest places on Earth—the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Summer Camp. Located on Lake Morris, Camp Courage is home for one week to kids struggling with neuromuscular disease. It is their chance to live, play, laugh, swim, love and enjoy life without their disability for seven short days. I think a counselor I met there said it best, “There is so much we take for granted— just being able to get up in the morning and walking to the bathroom to brush our teeth. Yet I come here and these kids are so happy and grateful for everything they have in their lives. These kids are the ones that deserve this amazing experience.” DECA members, we work so hard fundraising and planning community service projects so these kids can experience the joy of riding a horse, swimming in the refreshing lake water and making friends who have the same struggles they do. There is nothing more rewarding than all their smiling faces looking up at you saying, “Thank you. Because of DECA, I was able to come to this camp. I will never forget this summer!” — Morgan Thompson DECA National President

Create Conversation: Visit www.facebook.com/MDANational and leave a comment about how your DECA chapter will support MDA and The Movement this year.

Dash for the Diamonds

Singing and Reading

Last year’s DECA/Finish Line Dash for the Diamonds 5K Run/ Walk at the International Career Development Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, raised over $10,500 for MDA.

Where your money goes $30 Flu Shot $70 One minute of MDA-supported research $100 One support group session $150 One physical, occupational, respiratory or speech therapy consultation $300 Professional fees related to initial diagnostic work-up at an MDA clinic $500 Assists one person for one year with repairs to durable medical equipment $800 Week at MDA summer camp for one child Courtesy of MDA

Pacemakers Congratulations to the following DECA chapters that made the highest contributions through fundraising efforts to MDA during the 2011–2012 school year. $30,800 Waynesville (Mo.) DECA $12,400 Olentangy (Lewis Center, Ohio) DECA $11,500 Blue Springs (Mo.) DECA

? QUICK QUESTIONS List five ways that your chapter can get involved with the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Being “community oriented” is one of DECA’s guiding principles. As an emerging leader, why do you think demonstrating this quality is important? September–October 2012

Go to www.ourmvmt.com to join.

DECA Inc. Board President Jacklyn Schiller presents MDA National Goodwill Ambassador Abbey Umali with a contribution of more than $1,000 from DECA and Collegiate DECA association advisors this summer. Abbey joined DECA association advisors at the SAM Conference where she sang a heart-rending song and spoke about her summer read-athon in support of MDA.

Your generous contribution helps MDA in these ways.

DECA DIRECT

She wanted a college that would help prepare her for a career.

He wanted one where he’d get personal attention. Miranda Persaud B.S., Marketing Berkeley Class of ‘13 Christopher Bruederlein B.B.A., Accounting Berkeley Class of ‘11

Berkeley College was the perfect choice for both. Simply earning a college degree isn’t always enough to succeed in the professional world. Fortunately, Berkeley College gives students more. In addition to close, personal attention from accomplished faculty, all Berkeley degree programs include an internship or job-related assignment that gives graduates practical experience that may help them get started in their chosen careers. And support is available for everything from applying for scholarships and financial aid…to tutoring…to lifetime career assistance for graduates.

Find out more and we believe you’ll choose Berkeley with confidence. Call us at 800-446-5400, ext. GDB

info@BerkeleyCollege.edu • BerkeleyCollege.edu Berkeley College reserves the right to add, discontinue, or modify its programs and policies at any time. Modifications subsequent to the original publication of this information may not be reflected here. For the most up-to-date information, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu. For more information about Berkeley College graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed programs, and other important disclosures, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu/disclosures. P1838 - 6.2012

Create Conversation: Show us what you’re doing! Post a photo and brief description of your favorite chapter activity as it happens at facebook.com/decainc or facebook.com/collegiatedeca.

Minot (ND) DECA

Be the total

DECA chapter Enhancing the DECA experience through year-round engagement is the first step to achieving individual and chapter success while aiming to appeal to the different interests of members. A well-rounded chapter should be strong in various activities, offering meaningful ways to involve members and draw upon everyone’s unique talents and strengths. At last year’s Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference, former first-round pick for the Utah Jazz, Thurl Bailey, encouraged each member to find the spark that lights the fuse to the fireworks of their future. Take advantage of unique opportunities DECA chapter activities offer. You’ll develop your leadership abilities, problem solving skills and creativity and strengthen your chapter, all while building friendships that last a lifetime. By participating in DECA activities beyond competitive events, you can achieve your goals while making an impact on your local communities in your quest to become responsible, experienced leaders with integrity. As a chapter, choose activities that tap into your talent and can make you a visible and dynamic organization on campus so you can gain recognition and support. Check out page 18 for two programs that help both high school and collegiate members develop a wellrounded chapter that engages all of its members.

Thurl Bailey, Utah Jazz

? QUICK QUESTIONS Brainstorm five chapter activities and explain how each promotes one of DECA’s guiding principles. Why is it important to conduct a variety of chapter activities? September–October 2012

DECA DIRECT

Programs for the Total DECA Chapter High School: Chapter Campaigns Thrive with your DECA chapter this year by participating in DECA’s five high school chapter campaigns—membership, community service, promotion, global entrepreneurship and advocacy. These chapter campaigns are ideal to integrate in your program of work. Chances are high that you’re already doing many of these activities, so why not get recognition for them? Chapters have the opportunity to earn certificates, plaques, pennants, and ways to attend the International Career Development Conference in Anaheim, Calif. Get started today! www.deca.org/page/campaigns

Collegiate: Leadership Passport The Collegiate DECA Leadership Passport is designed to provide chapters greater levels of year-round engagement through activities that support DECA’s core values and guiding principles. Chapters that work together to fulfill the requirements will gain valuable learning experiences and a sense of purpose in their mission as Collegiate DECA members. Both chapters and members will also be recognized for their success at the International Career Development Conference. See what’s new this year with the Leadership Passport, and integrate these activities into your chapter’s program of work. Discover just how easy it can be to achieve success. www.deca.org/resources/college

N O R T H W O O D

DECA SCHOLARSHIPS $4,000 ($1,000/year) All active students with a 2.7 GPA and letter of recommendation from DECA advisor.

U N I V E R S I T Y

The school-of-choice for business-minded students! n

Many business majors to choose from (Check out our new Four Year BBA/MBA Program!)

$10,000 ($2,500/year) All state officers, and national or state 1st place winners by category with a 2.7 GPA and letter of recommendation from DECA advisor.

Start courses in your major on day one

Engage in hands-on, industry-specific learning opportunities in the freshman year

$20,000 ($5,000/year) All national officers with a 2.7 GPA.

High employment rate

These scholarships are in addition to academic scholarships. You may qualify for up to $10,000 annually. Eligibility requirements apply. Please visit our website for more information.

n Academic merit scholarships up to $10,500 annually n

25% of graduates own part or all of their own business within ten years of graduation

Intercollegiate athletics

n Award-winning Collegiate DECA program Our graduates emerge as leaders, managers, & entrepreneurs.

Call, Click, or Visit Today! Discover the leader in you. | 800.622.9000 | www.northwood.edu

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

DEC A T-SH TIME IRT NEW PRODUCT!

for All Your Chapterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Needs

703.860.5006 www.deca.org/shop deca_images@deca.org

Selecting a Competitive Event for You Both DECA and Collegiate DECA offer comprehensive competitive events programs that allow you the opportunity to match your personality, career goals and expertise with a complementing competitive event so you can thrive! Here are some suggestions for choosing the competitive event that is right for you. 1. Assess your strengths and areas of opportunities and match them to an appropriate competitive events format. DECA’s competitive events take on a variety of formats—some require the completion of a prepared presentation, some require a team effort, some require a 100-item exam and some require on-the-spot decision making, thus drawing on the personal strengths and learning styles of each member. Choose the style that’s best for you. For example, if you’re not a strong test taker but have exceptional writing skills, a written event that doesn’t require an exam might be the best choice for you. However, if you excel at test taking, quick decision-making, interviewing and time management, consider an event that requires these components—such as a business simulation or series event. You should also consider if you prefer to work individually or in a small group for an extended period of time before agreeing to engage in a team event. Are you and your teammates going to be equally committed to the event? 2. Review your personal background to look for knowledge you can draw upon. Where have you worked? Where do your parents work? Where have you lived or traveled? What do you enjoy in your leisure time? What is your career objective? You should consider your answers to all of these questions and determine how you can use the information to your benefit. For example, if you work as a front desk agent at a hotel, then you might consider participating in a hospitality event so you can draw upon the knowledge and skills you learn at work when solving your case study or preparing a presentation. Also think about each of these questions as opportunities to tap professional resources. For example, your parent’s company might allow you to conduct interviews with leading professionals or conduct research so you can use your findings in your competitive event. The key is determining a career area that fuels your passion and provides you with the necessary resources to be successful. Match your strengths to an event format and career area that complements those traits depending on your personal talents, level of commitment and interests. For more information about each division’s competitive events program, visit www.deca.org/competitions/highschool or www.deca. org/competitions/college.

? QUICK QUESTIONS What are three things you should consider when selecting a competitive event, and why are they important? Assess yourself. Choose one competitive event based upon your assessment and give three reasons why it is best for you. 20

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

MORGAN THOMPSON PRESIDENT

How do you want DECA to thrive this year?

I want to take the elements of DECA that are good and make them great! I am so excited for member feedback on the new aspects of social media that DECA is integrating. I want DECA to thrive through involvement of its members and by helping our stakeholders understand what this organization has to offer. @decamorgant

EMILY M. SOCHA

NORTH ATLANTIC REGION VICE PRESIDENT What does THRIVE mean to you?

THRIVE with DECA means to excel. It means to develop yourself, your team, your goals, and your passions. When members give 100% all the time, they can thrive. When they brainstorm, work as team or reach a common goal, they can thrive. When I picture the word “thrive” I see motion. I see innovation, progress, collaboration and hard work. @emilysocha

JORDAN ROBINSON

SOUTHERN REGION VICE PRESIDENT What are you looking forward to most?

I am most looking forward to getting to interact with the members on a more personal level this year and finding out what they want DECA to look like. I may live in the city now, but I’m still a down home country boy at heart. It is important to me to focus heavily on developing relationships and finding out how I can best support our members. @jay_decavp

CHRISTINE O’NEIL

CENTRAL REGION VICE PRESIDENT What’s your favorite DECA experience?

At the association level, I created and piloted a shoplifting prevention program. It was a packaged program, which means it included all the resources necessary to execute the program. More than 25 chapters agreed to execute the program. Training teams about the program and helping members build their speaking skills has been one of my most rewarding DECA experiences. @c_oneil46

VICTORIA CAÑA

WESTERN REGION VICE PRESIDENT What advice would you share with members?

My advice is common knowledge but not common practice: do what you’re passionate about and never give up on your dreams. Most dreams are impractical and odds are often stacked against you, but these shouldn’t be reasons to settle. The truly exceptional people in the world held onto their dreams, worked hard and reaped the benefits of their persistence. @victoriacana 22

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

2012-13 NATIONAL OFFICER TEAM

September–October 2012

DECA DIRECT

ELSA TAVARES PRESIDENT

What does “Thrive” mean to you?

When I think of the word “thrive,” I think of a perfectly seeded and flourished crop ready to be harvested. The seed has been planted in our classrooms by our teachers. Now, we flourish in competition and other leadership building activities and are prepared to be picked up by some of the best companies! @elsadecapres

DEMI HALL VICE PRESIDENT

What are you looking forward to most?

I am looking forward to spreading the word about Collegiate DECA to high school students and even to college students who may not know about Collegiate DECA. Everyone should be given the opportunity to take advantage of the great opportunities that this organization has in store for them. @demidecavp

MICHAEL PHAM VICE PRESIDENT

What advice would you share with members?

I would tell members to dream big and never relent in the pursuit of what they truly want in life. Work hard and do what you can to create your own happiness. @mikedecavp

FIDELMAR RIVERA JR. VICE PRESIDENT

What does “thrive” mean to you?

Thrive means to develop into the young professional you are supposed to become. We thrive when we do what we love, and our goal is to provide opportunities to find your passion. Whether it is through competition or networking, Collegiate DECA wants you to thrive. @fidelmardecavp

JESSICA TORMEY VICE PRESIDENT

How do you want DECA to thrive this year?

I want Collegiate DECA to thrive this year through increasing membership and participation in the Collegiate DECA Passport Program. Chapters and members who participate in the Passport Program have a richer DECA experience and will be more likely to continue DECA and encourage their friends to join. @jessicadecavp 24

DECA DIRECT

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2012-13 NATIONAL OFFICER TEAM

September–October 2012

DECA DIRECT

BUZZ

Send a photo and caption of your chapter activity to deca_direct@deca.org.

WHAT’s Your Chapter been Up to?

Kentucky Tech Ohio County (Hartford, Ky.) DECA (left) teamed with the local HOSA chapter to promote “The Reality Store” to local middle school students. DECA members helped teach the students about careers, lifestyles and financial literacy.

Appleton East DECA and Wausau West DECA (below) got together in northern Wisconsin for their annual chapter officer workshop that included camping, white water rafting, chapter planning and team bonding.

Collegiate DECA members (left) made the fan tunnel at the Utah Jazz game as part of their opening session festivities at the Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference.

Monta Vista (Cupertino, Calif.) DECA (left) held its second annual Business Boot Camp in August. For five days, incoming freshmen learned business basics and then presented business plans to real venture capitalists who provided constructive feedback.

Nearly 200 chapter and association officers from 20 chapters and associations converged at the DECA Emerging Leader Summit (above) in Los Angeles during July to kick off the year and develop plans.

September–October 2012

DECA DIRECT

BUZZ To celebrate their position as the largest DECA chapter, South Forsyth (Cumming, Ga.) DECA members (below) modeled their DECA t-shirts that say, “Come sail with us, the largest in the world,” at a nearby marina.

Johnson & Wales University North Miami (Fla.) Collegiate DECA members (right) dressed up for an annual community service project for Give Kids The World in Orlando. This year’s theme was “A Night at the Museum.” The culinary and baking and pastry members worked with the Peabody Orlando’s executive chef. More than 3,000 community service hours were volunteered for this cause.

Thomas Jefferson (Denver, Colo.) DECA members (above) volunteered to assist with the National Kidney Foundation’s 5K event held at Infinity Park. With more than 450 walkers and runners, the event raised more than $90,000.

Northeast (Broward County, Fla.) DECA chapter officers (right) held a carnation sale to help raise funds to support membership dues.

Four members from Monroe Career and Technical Institute (Bartonsville, Pa.) DECA (below) won first place in the ninth annual American Hotel & Lodging Education Institute International Lodging Management Program Competition held in Orlando, Fla.

Alma (Ark.) DECA members (above) met with a vendor to discuss products for their school-based enterprise, airelooms.

To jump start the year, Independence (Glendale, Ariz.) DECA members (left) met with incoming freshmen before the school year to participate in leadership development, chapter planning and mock competition. Salt Lake (Utah) Community College Collegiate DECA (right) held its first member meeting of the year in August to introduce members to the program and discuss activities planned for the year.

DECA DIRECT

September–October 2012

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