Mohandas Gandhi once quoted, “Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment, full effort is victory.” DECA, a high school marketing association, has had a significant impact on my life. Not only have I found my niche, but DECA has opened a world of opportunities. The people I have met and the lessons I have learned have had a positive effect on me. After being elected to the state level and reaching my goal, I have focused all of my efforts toward an organization that sincerely rests in my heart. Since joining DECA my sophomore year, I have been absorbing the wonderful opportunities that the organization has to offer. Only two weeks after joining DECA, I was elected Vice-President of my local chapter. I attended a DECA Leadership Conference a few months later, and fell in love. The many wonderful people I met and the memorable experiences changed me forever. My dedication to the business world prompted me to run for a higher office. I wanted to make a difference! On a Saturday in January, I completed a lengthy exam, performed two interviews, and presented a speech to a panel of judges in a screening process. Although it was a nerve-racking experience, I enjoyed every minute. Soon after, I found that my persistence had paid off and I was nominated for a state officer position. However, I was not quite satisfied. A month later, I presented another speech to one hundred voting delegates and was voted Indiana State DECA Vice-President of Corporate Development. A feat rarely obtained by a junior in high school. After serving a successful term on the officer team, I decided to run again for my senior year. Unfortunately, after going through the same process and passing officer screening, I was defeated in a close vote. Suddenly, I felt as everything I had contributed to DECA had vanished, and my passion was gone. Several days later I was contacted by Indiana DECA and they thanked me for the effort that I gave to my position. Consequently, they offered me a new position on the state officer team. Although hesitant at first, I eventually accepted the offer, and my passion was renewed. To this day, I still share a vital role on the state officer team and devote a significant amount of time towards helping Indiana DECA reach its full potential. My peers appreciate the energy and passion that I apply to my position. My brief setback was also a beneficial experience as I learned that I take many things for granted. Nevertheless, by achieving my lofty goal, I also discovered that anything is possible with hard work and tenacity. DECA continues to impact my life in a generous way and will always remain in my heart. -Butler-