HOW TO SUCCEED AT FBLA COMPETITIONS Advice For First Time Competitors -Ask upperclassmen/experienced FBLA members for tips. -Reach out to chapter/section officers. -Seek advice from advisers. -Remember, FBLA is competitive, but also about having fun and creating new experiences!
General Study Tips -As soon as you find out which event(s) you will be competing in, divide up your time to prevent cramming. -Study together with other members who are competing in the same event as you. Taking turns teaching each other is also a great way to absorb the knowledge. -Most of the events are vocabulary heavy; creating flashcards will help you remember and review the terms easily.
How To Handle The Pressure Of Competition
Where To Find Study Materials?
-Balance out school work and competition by dedicating a part of your day to studying for your event. Then there's less pressure trying to finish homework and study. -Think of the actual test as just another practice test, only in a different environment. -Practice gives you an idea of what the actual test is like so it is not nearly as nervewrecking during your test session. -Pressure is only a state of mind! Focus on what you have to learn and not on the external forces (ex. noises, distractions, pressure).
- Quizlet: There are plenty of flashcards out there that are already made! - Public library: Check out textbooks or self-help books through the Los Angeles library website and have the books sent to the library nearest you. - Testfrenzy: They have many practice tests that you can choose from. - Simply search your event topic online.
How To Know Which Event Is Right For You? Choose the event that you are most interested in: -1. Math-based events: Focuses on logical thinking and problem solving components. -2. Computer-based events: Focuses on computer problem solving and applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, etc. -3. Public Speaking-based events: Focuses on displaying your speaking skill on a topic. -4. Business-based events: Focuses on finances, laws, communication, etc. -5. Leadership-based events: Focuses on the organization of FBLA.
Advice For Speaking-Based Events -Impromptu Speaking: Try to practice making speeches about random topics at least once a day. -How To Make A Good Impression: Dress well. Present yourself professionally. -Public Speaking Practice: Look in the mirror while presenting your speech. Practice reciting your speech. Have speakers or friends critique you. -Speaking Tips: Be confident. Pronounce words correctly. Move around and use hand motions with a purpose.
Tips For Team Events -Be sure to gather together to study and learn how to cooperate with one another during the test. -If using a textbook, split it up. Each team member should become an expert of certain sections of the textbook. -Do practice tests together as a group— simulate the real competition day. -Develop a plan of how your team will tackle the practice test (e.g. how to split the test up among the group members during the 1hour testing period). -Go over the practice test together and review each mistake several times.