This year, our very own LHS DECA has 26 members going to compete at state this year, the most they’ve ever had. The group is a mix of first-timers along with veterans, including Reid Nelson, who gave an insight to the emotions mixed into his journey.

“We’ve shown what we know and who we are,” said a confident Jason Joris, one of the leaders of DECA.

The span of time that the students have between district and state is around 2 months, leaving them to balance their personal and school lives along with studying and practicing for the state competition.

“We have prep sessions to help strengthen the knowledge they already have and to prepare their presentation skills,” said Joris.

Their true goal at state is to place within the top 10 percent in their categories which would advance them to the international competition, ICDC, which includes over 20,000 students from around the world. 

“I’m feeling nervous and excited at the same time,” said Junior Reid Nelson.

This year will be Reid’s third in DECA, his second going to state, but his first time doing so in person.

There is, however, one complication that comes with advancing to ICDC this year.

“I don’t think I’ll go to ICDC if I make it this year,” said Reid Nelson, “it’s on our prom weekend.”               

That’s right, ICDC is being held on the very weekend of LHS’s prom, which leaves the people who may advance to ICDC with a difficult choice to make. While both experiences are highlights of high school and being a part of any competition, it all boils down to a personal choice anyone has to make if they advance in the competition.

Being faced with a difficult decision, the members of DECA still hope to do well. Good luck and congratulations to the 26 members participating at this year’s state competition, being held in downtown Indianapolis.