The high school Class of 2021 had their DECA careers capped with virtual competition and virtual ceremonies. While those members still were able to make lifelong connections and have meaningful experiences, it was likely not the end they dreamed of. Thankfully, their DECA journeys don’t have to end there. Collegiate DECA allows graduates to continue their careers.
Here are a few reasons why you should join Collegiate DECA.
1. Emphasis on leadership and networking
In Collegiate DECA, there are plenty of opportunities to grow your leadership skills and network. In the fall semester, the focus for most chapters is typically on leadership development through chapter events, association leadership conferences and the ENGAGE Conference in November. Additionally, there are more opportunities to meaningfully network in the collegiate division, because it is much smaller than the high school division. You can truly make connections from around the globe that will last a lifetime.
2. Relationship with faculty
Collegiate DECA allows members to develop close relationships with their faculty advisors. It can be difficult to stand out in a lecture hall of a hundred students and build a relationship with a faculty member at your college or university. Through Collegiate DECA, you have a built-in relationship that you can leverage to get a leg up when it comes to help in the classroom and other support.
3. Competition prepares you for career
When you begin your post-secondary academic career, you likely do so to obtain a job in a career field of your choosing that will ensure long-term success and security. To do that, you need the skills to stand out and land the job. Through competition, DECA prepares you to do just that. In your competition for DECA Glass, you’ll practice the skills you need to nail your interview and be successful in the workplace.
There are a few ways you can continue your DECA career in college. You may join a chapter on your campus, start a chapter on your campus if your college or university doesn’t already have a chapter, or join as an independent member. You can check out all of those options here.
Joining Collegiate DECA three years ago has been one of the best decisions of my life. It has brought me endless opportunities and an amazing community. Joining is a leap you won’t regret taking!
