TJ DECA sends 14 Spartans to State Competition.
TJ DECA lived up to their motto of “Be Epic” on November 13th as members once again excelled in competition at Johnson and Wales University. Fourteen Spartans qualified for State, a larger number than in previous years, which is even more impressive considering that Thomas Jefferson recently entered a more competitive district. Overall, 60 TJ students competed, which is a growing testament to the strength of the program.
For TJ DECA students, the District competition is both an exciting and hectic experience, as they must look and perform their best against hundreds of others aiming for the same goal: State. “Before the competition I felt nervous; this was my first year competing and I didn’t know exactly what to expect,” mentioned State qualifier and senior Brandon Griffith. Griffith further explained that he combated his anxiety by preparing for his performance. He described, “I set myself up for success by going to workshops [seminars at districts that provided helpful advice for students]that had tips to help us before we competed. Also, I used the role-plays we had in class to prepare for what to expect.” Junior Nick Wilson explained that he also set himself up for success by preparing for his role-play. “[My partner and I] were confident but unsure we were going to win.”
When students arrived on campus at Johnson and Wales, one decisive element of their final score was already determined. Earlier that week, students completed a written test, which was composed of 100 questions regarding their area of competition, ranging from Principal events (first year) to Accounting and Ethics management.
With the test out of the way, students were able to focus on their two role-plays during the day; they presented a business plan in front of judges, who graded the students on their concept of business knowledge and overall competence. Furthermore, students were graded on performance indicators, which are specific items within a role-play that students must answer correctly in order to obtain the best grade possible.
Prior to their role-plays, individuals are given 15 minutes, and teams are given 28 minutes, to prepare for their 10 and 15 minute presentations, respectively. In addition to performance indicators, students must be quick on their feet when judges ask questions that force students to make a forceful decision, which they must support with confidence. To determine who makes it to State, the sum of a student’s test and role-play scores are averaged and compared with those in their competitive group, often ranging from 10 to 20 others, of which only two or three will qualify.
At the conclusion of the day, students gathered in a large auditorium to await the names of those who qualified and the student’s school; Thomas Jefferson was called quite often. Wilson was elated upon hearing his team’s name announced, and mentioned, “I didn’t even hear my name, I heard Dane Vandermiller [senior], and I stood up so fast and screamed.” Senior Brooklynn York was surprised upon hearing her name, mentioning: “When I heard my name announced for State, I was confused and shocked. I didn’t think my written test would allow me to qualify. After it set in, I was very happy.”
Perhaps most impressed was TJ DECA Instructor and Judge Coordinator Matthew Nicolo, who claimed that the judges had only positive impressions of TJ students: “They knew who a TJ student was.” Nicolo asserted that he most enjoys competition because he gets to witness his students demonstrate “a professional, mature attitude and really represent our community with pride.” Nicolo later commented, “I am very proud of the students that demonstrate a work ethic, because that will be a driving force behind all of their successes in life. For those students that wait for the opportunity to run right up to them, well, let’s just say most of those students are still waiting.”
Following competition, Griffith provided advice to future DECA members, and mentioned, “There is no such thing as too much preparation, only not enough.” Wilson claimed that for students competing in the future, “Confidence helps a lot,” and that students should always study and work hard. Students who are currently in DECA can already explain what the program has done for them, and Nicolo further added, “DECA is a great opportunity to prepare for life events, not just competition. Every single one of us will be a consumer or apply for a job in the future. DECA gives you the tools to succeed in life and it definitely separates you from the crowd, which is what every successful college and business is looking for in potential members. Be the difference and prepare for your future with DECA. It works!”
Qualifiers should have plenty of time to practice their craft as they prepare for State, which will be held through the 20th to the 23rd of February, at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs.
State Qualifiers:
Valyntine Lonnergain
Jonny Sundeen
Brandon Pieters
Ilan Eshkenazi
Jay Stevens
Brooklynn York
Dane Vandermiller and Nick Wilson
David Barron and Rachel Brandorf
Gabby Medina
Rebecca Gubrood
Evan Anderson and Brandon Griffith
