The majority of East Highschoolers have heard the word DECA float around every once in a while. For those unaware, DECA stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America and has been around since 1946. However, that name does absolutely nothing to describe what DECA actually is. Basically, it is a mock business competition with tons of categories ranging from extremely broad to super specific. A lot of people also believe that DECA is a cult. Unfortunately, DECA is not a cult, there are absolutely no rituals of any kind, sacrifices, or chanting. Actually, there might be a bit of chanting and general buffoonery, but that is the extent of the craziness. To join, one has to take one business class during that school year to be eligible. There are three main competitions throughout the year, districts, states, and internationals or ICDCs. Districts are the lowest tier, taking place locally, and those that place at the top qualify for states. However, that is not the only way to go to states. For those who didn’t place or are not fans of role plays, where a person has a limited time to answer key indicators from a prompt and present it to a judge, projects are where it’s at. Projects take more time and preparation, but if being on the spot is not someone’s favorite thing, it is a great option to still be involved.

Now, states are the big whammy, since it is during the week (no school for three whole days), and most people who are a part of DECA go on this trip to Hershey. Schools from all over PA gather to worship the business overlords, I mean to compete against each other like at districts to get that DECA hardware. Those lucky enough to place go to the ultimate contest, ICDCs. Internationals can occur in Orlando, Florida, Anaheim, California, Nashville, Tennessee, or Atlanta, Georgia depending on the year. The winners there are the best of the best, DECA gods if you will.

Besides all the school missing, DECA is a blast to be in and a fun time overall. If you have a genuine interest in anything related to business, please join because the real-life experiences one gains are invaluable. Also, it looks great on college applications and can give you that extra boost you need to get into the school of your dreams. Take this vital information to heart and participate in something truly special. But first, give us all your worldly possessions and cut off all contact with the outside world to free your mind from the claws of the machine. Easy peasy lemon squeezy, no sweat.