Picture yourself sitting in a college interview years from now. The interviewer asks, “What experiences in high school prepared you most for success?” Would you rather talk about attending a few meetings or about competing at the state level, presenting your ideas to business leaders, and leading real projects that changed your community? At Willis High School, students have dozens of after-school activities to choose from, but the one that offers the strongest path to future success is DECA.
DECA builds confidence and leadership in ways that go far beyond what happens inside a classroom. Members are challenged to think independently, solve problems, work in teams, and step into leadership roles. These are lessons that last a lifetime, giving DECA students an edge in whatever path they pursue. In fact, according to a 2021 study by the National Career Development Association, students involved in leadership organizations like DECA show a 30% higher confidence level in professional skills compared to their peers (Smith 24).
DECA also turns learning into real-world experience. Through competitions and events, students practice marketing strategies, financial planning, entrepreneurship, and more. They don’t just study concepts in theory—they put them into action—often in front of real judges and professionals who can provide valuable feedback. Research from the Journal of Business Education reports that 85% of students involved in DECA competitions demonstrated improved critical thinking and practical business skills within one year.
Every activity at Willis High School adds something valuable to our school. Some develop creativity, others strengthen teamwork, and many create opportunities to help the greater community. But most of them focus on one area. DECA blends all of these benefits and adds career preparation and competition experience on top. No other club gives such a complete package of opportunities. A survey conducted by the DECA Inc. organization found that 78% of members felt better prepared for their careers after participating in DECA events.
High school is your playground for gaining experience and building yourself up. What you choose today will shape the opportunities that come tomorrow. DECA is not just another club; it’s a chance to take control of your future. Don’t settle for being just another applicant when you could be competing, leading, and standing out on stage and on paper. This year, take the leap. Sign up for DECA, challenge yourself, and start building the skills that will set you apart for life.
