Contributed by Preston Asher | Butler University, IN
During my time in Collegiate DECA, I've had the unique opportunity to participate in the Stock Market Challenge, an experience that both challenged and enhanced my understanding of finance. This competition allowed me to apply what I had learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios, and it ultimately played a pivotal role in shaping my career aspirations.
The challenge required our team to invest in stocks and bonds, focusing on equities valued at over $3. We spent weeks researching, analyzing market trends and strategically deciding which stocks to buy and when to sell. It wasn’t just about picking the right stock; we had to manage risk, monitor market fluctuations and adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
Over the course of the competition, we achieved a return of over 30%, which was a significant accomplishment considering the high level of competition. Competing against dozens of other teams pushed us to refine our strategies and stay on top of our game. It was an intense and rewarding experience, and it allowed me to test my skills in a competitive environment.
One of the most valuable aspects of the challenge was the required teamwork. Initially, our group came together with different ideas and approaches to the task. However, as we worked through the competition, we learned how to collaborate effectively, combining our strengths and perspectives to make better decisions. We had to communicate constantly, share our research and debate the best course of action. It taught me the importance of clear communication, compromise and collective decision-making. We also had to delegate tasks based on each team member’s strengths, reinforcing the importance of leadership and the ability to trust one another.
In addition to teamwork, the Stock Market Challenge helped me hone my leadership skills. As we progressed, I took on more of a leadership role, guiding discussions and helping the team stay focused on our goals. I had to motivate the group, ensure everyone was on the same page and keep track of our overall strategy. This experience taught me that leadership isn’t just about directing others but fostering collaboration and creating an environment where everyone’s input is valued. DECA’s standards helped us frame our approach, emphasizing ethical decision-making, professionalism, and teamwork, all of which were integral to our success.
Looking back, the Stock Market Challenge was more than just a competition—it was a pivotal learning experience. It gave me hands-on exposure to financial markets and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in finance. The knowledge I gained about stock trading, bond investments and risk management was invaluable, and I continue to build on these lessons as I work toward my career goals.
The teamwork and leadership skills I developed are also things I carry with me, as they are crucial in any professional setting. Collegiate DECA provided me with a platform to push myself, learn from my peers and grow professionally and personally, and I am incredibly grateful for the experience.
