Collegiate DECA is all about learning, building connections, and gaining insight from people who have taken the next step in their careers. As a member, I recommend exploring different leadership positions and opportunities. It is natural to have questions about what comes next, how to get started, and what lessons can be learned through experiences.
On September 4, your Collegiate Executive Officer Team is bringing together a panel so you can hear directly from experienced founders and presidents. This is an amazing opportunity for you to ask questions you may have about each of their stories. The panel will provide a space for you to gain new perspectives, learn from real experiences, and connect with individuals who have built something of their own.
To give a preview of what you will hear during the panel, I asked each of our panelists this question:
“When you were becoming a founder, what is one piece of advice you wish you had known?”
KB Licitra, President + Founder of Montclair State Collegiate DECA
“One piece of advice I wish I had gotten as a founder is to really take a step back and look at all the small wins. Yes, I know it sounds a little cheesy, but it’s so important to look at all these small victories. It is important to build a chapter. You’ve already come so far, so take a step back and look at everything you’ve accomplished. All those small wins are essential to be part of your DECA story, and it'll help your chapter be the next big thing.”
Tate Cain, President + Founder of the University of Kentucky Collegiate DECA
“I wish I had known that being a founder doesn’t mean being the person with all the answers; it means being the person willing to ask the first question. You can spend forever wondering whether people will show up, whether your idea will work, or whether you’re qualified to lead it. At some point, you just have to give people something to believe in and invite them to build it with you. The chapter you create will eventually become bigger than your original vision, and that’s the whole point.”
Isabella, President + Founder of Louisiana State University Collegiate DECA
“I wish I had known that you don't have to have everything figured out. There is never going to be a 'perfect time.' As you go, you are going to learn so much. My advice is to take the initiative. Surround yourself with people who believe in the idea you are building, and don't be afraid to ask for help. Starting something from the ground up can be very intimidating but the impact you create makes it worth it!”
Aurora, President + Founder of Southeastern Louisiana University Collegiate DECA
“It’s important for founders to make a commitment to their students, be passionate about what they’re doing on campus, and create an authentic environment for members to continue to learn and grow.”
If you take one thing from this article, let it be that there is no perfect way to build something from the ground up. Celebrate the small wins, ask questions, take initiative, and surround yourself with people who believe in your goals.
Your journey as a leader may look different from everyone else’s, but every experience is an opportunity to learn, grow, and most importantly, make an impact!
