Networking

Stand Out with Gratitude: Why DECA Members Should Embrace Thank-You Notes
Gen Z was a generation raised on texting, DMs and 24/7 connectivity. Sitting down to write a thank-you card might feel outdated or even awkward. But in the professional world, that’s exactly what makes it such a powerful move.

Excelling During Freshman Year
Your first year in college will be very different from anything you’ve experienced before, so make sure to enjoy your time and make the most of it. This article gives you some helpful tips for a successful first year of college.

5 Ways to Maximize Your ELS Leadership Experience
Whether it’s your first time at ELS or you’re back for another summer of DECA excellence, these five tips will help you make the most of your ELS experience and ensure you leave more inspired, empowered and ready to lead!

The College Student’s Guide to LinkedIn
Let's be real, college is stressful enough without having the added stress of thinking about your future career. Here are five fun and practical ways to start using LinkedIn today to better your chances at landing your dream career.

Navigating the Summer Before College
The summer before college is a unique and often overlooked chapter in the story of your academic journey. It’s a season that offers more than rest – it’s an opportunity to intentionally prepare, reflect and reset.

Level Up This Summer: The Strength of Volunteering
Leadership doesn't end when the school year does, and neither should your impact. Volunteering is one of the most fulfilling ways to level up as a student, leader and citizen.

Maximizing Your Professional Conference Experience
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve started collecting pins like a pro, there’s more to the conference experience than a weekend getaway. With the right preparation and a few tips, you can turn a few days of networking and workshops into a launchpad for your future.

A Guide to the Exhibit Hall at ICDC
Outside of competition, academies and pin trading, another way to spend time in the OCCC is by visiting the ICDC Exhibit Hall. You can interact with many colleges, employers and vendors to see where the future may take you.

Social Media to the Sky Beyond DECA
You occasionally practice your online marketing skills by participating in the various DECA social media campaigns. Learn how you can translate them into your career.

Your DECA Era Is Not Over
As this year in DECA wraps up, it is easy to let the connections you made fade. Read on to learn why your connections matter, how to keep them and why starting now sets you up for future success.

Exploring the Emerging Leader Series Academies
Competition is not the only way to attend DECA ICDC. You can also travel to Orlando, FL, as an attendee of an Academy. Check out this article to explore the different ICDC academies!

DECA ICDC: Beyond Competition
DECA ICDC 2025, hosted in the Sunshine State, offers much more than competition. Get ready to BE THE ONE by participating in opportunities such as the Emerging Leaders Series, College and Career Exhibits, pin trading and more.