Walking past members perfecting their presentations, Amelia Konstantinopoulos, senior and club president, looks forward to DECA’s upcoming State competition March 6-8 in Indianapolis. Practicing twice a week leading up to State, members focus on different elements of business and how to deal with challenges that correspond with each business cluster. 

“As a state officer, I am excited to have a different experience and help lead the state conference with the fellow officers this year,” Amelia said. “I am also hoping Munster performs well as a team and we have members qualify for the International Career Development Conference.”

Gathering in a group of people in the same event, Ethan Park, senior and finance officer, helps his peers by demonstrating how the event role-play works. Although his event, Marketing Communications, is a solo event, he finds it helpful to watch others perform their role-plays and give feedback. 

“DECA has helped me learn skills with communication, creativity and critical thinking,” Ethan said. “I feel like it’s a very social club and you can learn a wide variety of things.”

Spending practice researching for their presentations, seniors Anushka Majety and Mallika Keralavarma have both participated in the Hospitality Services event all four years they have been a part of DECA. Qualifying for Internationals twice, they usually research current trends in hotel and hospitality to implement into their role-plays. 

“I am most looking forward to walking around Indianapolis and visiting the mall with my DECA partner and friends. Two years ago, an entertainment session with a hypnotist was held so I am also looking forward to seeing that again,” Mallika said. “My partner and I have qualified for Internationals the past two years so I hope to do the same this year.”