Brighton High School’s DECA team recently achieved considerable success at districts. From seasoned competitors rediscovering their passion for business to first-time participants excited to grow their skills, DECA continues to empower students to excel both in and out of the classroom.
“BHS DECA brought home an impressive total of 112 medals, including 51 state qualifiers. Their achievement highlights Brighton DECA’s commitment to excellence and leadership. We look forward to our next competition at the state level in March,” said Mrs. Costa, one of DECA’s lead advisors alongside Mr. Ford.
As one of the 51 state qualifiers, sophomore Kate Reed said, “When I found out I made it to states, I was elated because I had a blast at districts, and I am looking forward to more of that same energy. Also, I am excited to spend time with my friends in DECA for a few days in Detroit.”
DECA is beneficial for students who want to pursue a career in business or want to get better at their public speaking skills. When asked why he joined DECA, senior Owen Blush said, “I decided to join because it seemed like fun, and I wanted to see if I would enjoy majoring in business at college.”
Blush recently found out he made it into the University of Michigan and will be pursuing a business degree either there or at Xavier University. Through DECA, he was able to capture his love for business.
Blush said, “I’ve made it to states both years I’ve done it, and I really do feel like it has helped me discover my career, improve my public speaking skills, respond to real-life situations with more knowledge and meet amazing new people.”
Students can compete in a variety of different events, both individually or with a partner. Reed competed alone, which she loved because it was a smaller category, so she was able to stand out.
“I liked being able to rely only on myself and push myself to a higher level; however, when you compete individually, you only get 10 minutes compared to partners who get 30,” Reed said.
However, many enjoy the sense of collaboration that comes with competing with a friend. Junior Alyssa Ortega was one of many students who chose to take this route.
She said, “I couldn’t do it without my partner, Andrew Kennedy. He’s been such a lifeline for me, as he always is supporting me, my goals and [my] ideas.”
Students choose to join DECA for a variety of reasons, but the skills they learn are ultimately designed to prepare them for the actual workforce after they graduate.
“DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management,” said Costa. “It operates in high schools and colleges worldwide, with chapters in all 50 U.S. states and five countries. DECA membership provides tools, knowledge and skills to gain an edge in internships, scholarships, jobs and college applications.”
Junior Alyssa Ortega said she joined DECA because of a sports and entertainment class she took sophomore year.
“I absolutely loved the class as well as business. It really opened my eyes up to possible careers,” she said. “I had looked into joining DECA since my freshman year, and after talking to some of my friends, we all decided to try it out together!”
Ortega said that her experience has been nothing short of amazing, and she is excited to continue to grow through competing but also as the official DECA social media manager.
“Since stepping into a larger leadership role this year, I had quite the agenda to not only compete in my event but also document all the amazing men and women there with me,” she said. “I’m able to run and build our online brand identity through social media! It’s been so great to get to create something almost from the ground up.” Ortega is excited to continue both running the social media and working her way from states to the International Career Development Conference this year.
Brighton made their presence known at DECA districts and will be sending 51 Bulldogs to states in March. Four students will attend an academy at the international level in April. Mrs. Costa said, “Our students represent BHS in the best way possible, all while working as a team. I look forward to the rest of the year as we prepare for states happening in Detroit and internationals happening in Orlando.”
