DECA is a program that EG once offered; however, it is now offered again. DECA offers students opportunities to expand their knowledge on many skills related to business and entrepreneurship, as well as getting the chance to compete and go on multiple field trips.
“It helps a lot with skills, talking, everything you need to know about business,” senior Harsh Patel said.
DECA meets every other Tuesday morning where students prep for competitions and learn more about business and marketing. The competitions feature three categories: an economics test and two different role plays.
“It’s a pretty rare opportunity,” freshman Connor Cloherty said. “You get to meet new people, learn a lot of ideas and try new things that you might not necessarily do.”
DECA is a worldwide program. There is a district competition, and successful students can move on to a statewide, or even national competition.
“Our whole point of DECA is to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs and to provide as many activities and opportunities for students to experience marketing business,” economics teacher and DECA sponsor Chad Froeschle said.
Sometimes the program will have guest speakers, workshops and unique field trips. This year, the field trips focus mostly on sports marketing. DECA members as well as business students get the opportunity to visit Soldier Field, US Cellular Field and the United Center.
On top of business related tasks, members of DECA also participate in community service and other volunteer opportunities to help teach students about communication in the real world.
“Nothing would get done if we weren’t able to communicate our ideas to each other. I think that is a big part of business in the modern world,” Cloherty said. “If we know how to communicate with each other, we can solve problems more effectively.”
By Codi Oehlerking