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Study Smarter, Not Harder: Your Guide to Role-play Success
The most successful competitors don’t study harder; they study smarter. Here’s how to prepare efficiently, build real-world knowledge, and stand out in your next role-play.

American Marketing Association (AMA) Associate in Marketing Management Certificate Now Available
The AMA Associate in Marketing Management Certificate validates the marketing skills DECA students possess, signaling to colleges and employers that they’re prepared for what’s next. Learn how to gain access.

Case Study of the Week: Spot The Weaknesses
Step into the role of an accounting auditor hired by Operation Care, a local nonprofit organization. The chair of the board of trustees wants to increase accounting controls and has asked you to review current controls, report weaknesses and make recommendations.

The "Dupe" Economy: Strategy or Sabotage?
The "dupe" economy is a tricky two-sided idea. While it makes trends accessible to everyone, it also challenges the brands that invest time and money in innovation. In this article, explore the pros and cons of the "dupe" economy.

CTE & CTSOs 101: The Basics (But Better)
CTE gives you a massive head start and crucial exposure with real-world skills, industry-level gear and the kind of experiences that make a resume stand out. Let’s dive into why these acronyms are so crucial!

Beyond Repetition: Mastering Preparation for DECA Competitions
Preparation is the most important factor for success in competition! While many competitors repeat practice tests and role-plays in hopes of earning high scores, true preparation goes beyond practicing over and over again.

Words of Wisdom: Pieces of Advice From DECA Advisors
Chapters across the nation are preparing for one of the most exciting times of the year. To better understand these key elements, we asked DECA advisors in Florida DECA District 8 for advice they would give to members.

From Vision to Verity: How to Stay Consistent with Your 2026 Goals
As we begin February, many New Year’s Resolutions fade into wistful aspirations instead of life-changing habits. Here are some of my favorite tips for keeping consistent when the New Year’s sparkle wears off.

Tips for Small Chapter Growth
Although new chapter obstacles often felt insurmountable, every successful chapter begins in the same position. Here is a quick guide to help your DECA chapter prepare for future success!

2026 is the New 2016? How a Meme Redefined an Artist and a Culture
If culture moves in cycles, then 2026 is pressing rewind. A growing nostalgia for the mid-2010s is redefining how brands market, how artists resurface, and how Gen Z defines cultural identity.

Participate in the Non-Competitive Stock Market Game Session
The SIFMA Foundation is offering a non-competitive DECA Stock Market Game running from February 9 through April 16, 2026. This is a great opportunity for students to test out the simulation and prepare for the Fall's Stock Market Game ICDC qualifier.

More Than Football: The Business Strategy Driving the Super Bowl
Beyond the touchdowns and the trophies, the Super Bowl has evolved into a billion-dollar experience and is a significant example of sophisticated marketing and business operations worldwide.

Tips from the Pros: Career Advice from Former DECA Executive Officers
We caught up with some of DECA's former Executive Officers and asked them to share their top piece of advice for DECA members to succeed in their future careers. Here’s what they had to say.

Does It Matter?
Whether you are in high school, undergraduate studies or graduate school, it’s important to put your best foot forward and focus on your academic career.

7 Ways to Stand Out During an Internship
How do you ensure that you make your mark and become an intern that shines, even in a virtual world?
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Must-Have Mentors (and How to Find Them)
As a young professional, mentors are key for getting the guidance you need to grow in your career. But not all mentors are the same, and you’ll need more than one mentor type to get a well-rounded perspective on your career.

6 Tips to Take Your Networking Skills to the Next Level
LinkedIn profile? Check. Solid handshake? Check. You’ve got the basics down, but what else should you be doing to take your networking to the #NextLevel? Check out these networking tips known only to the pros and start building new connections!

Get into the Gap
If you’re one of the many students delaying or thinking about delaying college, here’s what you should know to have a productive and meaningful gap year or semester.

DECA Direct Magazine: What Comes Next?
As another year in DECA nears its end, it’s time to look forward to what comes next! Whether you’re preparing for college, seeking internships or getting ready to start your career, you’ll find the resources you need to stand out from the crowd.

Congratulations to the 2020-2021 Collegiate DECA Recognition Award Recipients
DECA Inc. announces the recipients of the 2020-2021 Collegiate DECA Recognition Awards.

Case Study of the Week: Laney Bee's Customer Service Send-off to the Competition
A rival store in the area will be closing its doors soon and the Laney Bee district manager decided that your store location will honor a rival company’s gift cards for 30-days.

Collegiate DECA 2020-2021 Leadership Passport Program Recipients
Congratulations to the 2020-2021 Collegiate DECA Leadership Passport Program recipients!

10 of the Most Influential Businesswomen of 2020
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we explore the top 10 most influential businesswomen from 2020.

5 Business and Leadership Books That Should Be on Your List
Throughout my academic career, I have found that a good book is hard to beat. I can honestly say that certain books have even changed my life—everything from basic tasks such as how I make my bed, to greater things like the way I think and process information.

