DECA is a not-for-profit career and student organization with a staggering membership and has been one of North High’s most popular clubs. Surpassing 224,000 individuals, DECA is spanning across the United States, Canada, China, Germany, Poland, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, and Vietnam.
Crafted as an effective platform for honing business acumen and expertise, DECA doesn’t merely fortify the business landscape; it offers an array of benefits ranging from leadership development to networking avenues and problem-solving prowess, nurturing a generation poised for success.
DECA offers a multitude of competitive opportunities for high school students interested in business, finance, marketing, and hospitality, and participation in these events provides practical experience, enhances academic profiles, and helps you develop essential skills for your future career.
Moreover, DECA is not only designed for learning opportunities, but also gives a unique experience that students remember for the rest of their lives.
After competing in Regionals on Dec. 16, students who placed moved on to States. DECA States took place from March 6 to March 8, and was held in Rochester, New York.
Students from all over the states were brought to compete and winners moved on to Nationals which is taking place in Anaheim, California.
Amidst the spirited ambiance of competition, DECA States emerged with talent and ambition, hosted in the vibrant city of Rochester. Students from diverse corners of the nation congregated, driven by the fervor of competition and the promise of advancement to Nationals.
As the curtains parted on March 8 at the convention center, emotions ran high, encapsulating a tapestry of jubilation, tension, and poignant farewells. Tables were filled with students anticipating whether they would move on or not.
As the crowd roared louder after each name was announced, the aurora became filled with happiness, stress, sorrows, and tears that were shed either through happiness or sadness.
Many students competed at the Conference and 24 students from North High will ultimately be moving on to the International Conference in Anaheim California.
“Going to DECA States was an experience that made me feel so much more connected to my school and made me feel proud to be a part of something bigger than myself and even my school,” said junior Elizabeth Matalon after her and her partner, Alexa Petruso, won fourth place.
“I was completely surprised when I heard our names called. I just started jumping because I was so happy,” said junior Alexa Petruso. “My partner and I went over to get our glass trophy and were in complete shock.”
In addition to North High’s many achievements, it now has the honor of being the school where the New York State president attends.
At DECA States, junior Nina Goldstein showcased her strong leadership skills as she campaigned and effectively articulated her vision and qualifications for the role of president.
In a culmination of democratic fervor, Goldstein clinched the presidency, celebrated as the change and new innovation for the DECA States board in the year 2025. On March 7, in Rochester, she was announced as the DECA States president.
Reflecting on her victory, Goldstein shares sentiments of surrealism and relief.
“It felt extremely surreal but I had my friends supporting me and cheering me on,” said Goldstein. “I also felt a lot of relief because my months of hard work paid off. But most importantly, I just wanted to get off stage and tell the people who mean the most to me” she continued.
DECA States not only marks a milestone in academic achievement, but serves as a testament to the transformative influence of leadership and perseverance, shaping narratives that resonate far beyond the confines of a competition hall.
