Hello, This is my first year doing DECA and so far, it has been a memorable experience. I have made many friends but have also managed to learn many skills involved in the marketing world, specifically in the restaraunt full service management, which is the event that I am doing this year. DECA has allowed me to grow as a student and business person. Mike Hi Darryl, Thank you for including me in your e-mail for your senior project. My experience with DECA is unique in that when I worked in industry I served as a judge for DECA competition. From that experience, I saw the way DECA prepared students for the “real world”. That was what made me decide to leave the field of marketing to become a marketing teacher and DECA advisor. For over 7 years I was a DECA advisor in North Carolina and Virginia. During that time I saw my students gain skills such as time management, interpersonal skills, leadership skills, teamwork and so much more. DECA has helped prepare my students for college. Many of my former students are attending some of the best business school’s in the nation – such as University of Massachusetts at Amherst, University of Virginia, and Clemson University. Many of my students have gone on to successful careers in the fields of real estate, marketing, finance, retailing and sales. In fact, you may have even heard back from one of my former students – Chase Blahuta, who is currently working for us here at the national staff as the Web editor. Last year (a year ago today, to be exact)…I made the decision to leave the classroom and join the staff of DECA. It’s an outstanding organization that provides opportunities that students may not have otherwise. If I can be of any further assistance with your project, please let me know. Sincerely, Julie Julie M. Kandik Director, DECA Images DECA, Inc. "DECA is a valuable club in so many ways. It allows the student to have a lot of fun with their peers, learn about marketing and business, and practice the skills they learn in realistic settings. DECA has benefitted me in so many ways, giving me knowledge and confidence in the area of business and giving me a step up for the next phase of my life." Curtis Blaine '08 Myers Park High School Charlotte, NC