FAQ
The Answers You Need
WHAT IS DECA?
DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe (DECA Inc).
WHO IS DECA FOR?
Here's some great news for you: DECA is for anybody interested! DECA does not limit its participants in any way, just sign up and put your best foot forward!
HOW WILL DECA HELP ME?
DECA helps students become “career-ready” and prepared for what competencies are required at the workplace. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the seven competencies that make you career-ready:
a. Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
b. Oral/Written Communication
c. Teamwork/Collaboration
d. Informational technology Application
e. Leadership
f. Professionalism/Work Ethic
g. Career Management
In DECA, you are introduced to these competencies and learn to master them.
WHAT WAS YOUR DECA EXPERIENCE?
"DECA has been an eye-opening experience for me. After having heard about the organization in the 8th grade, my excitement could not be contained. I applied as soon as possible, come the start of high school, and went on as an executive the following year. From the people to the thrilling competition it was all I had hoped for. DECA exposed me to the professional realm of business and several learning experiences followed. I don’t believe I will ever be “bored” in DECA. The are so many choices in terms of events, teams and opportunities that my excitement never dulled.
Realistically speaking, everyone has to look out for themselves. Which begs the question, “What can DECA do for ME?“ My answer to that, is “everything.” From enlarged eyes, your post secondary admissions officer displays looking at your application; all the way to a polished reputation you can grow and expand on for the rest of your life. DECA is not an experience to be missed and I highly recommend joining in whatever capacity thrills YOU."
- Esha Dhillon, DECA President 2020-2021
WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO?
Through the year, you will participate in competitive events that will qualify you to the next stage. First, you will complete an exam and then regionals (if applicable). If your performance on the exam and regionals qualifies you, you will move on to provincials and then, hopefully, internationals (ICDC). You will focus on studying and practicing for your exam, and then begin completing your chosen event.
WHAT IS THE WORKLOAD LIKE?
The great thing about DECA is that there is no set amount of time or work you have to complete – instead it is entirely up to your individual preferences. That being said, take a moment to understand that “you get out what you put in.” The more you prepare for each competition, statistically, the better you will perform.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A COMPETITION?
Our DECA chapter holds weekly meetings on Tuesday after school in preparation for competitive events. Sometimes these meetings are twice a week, especially when closer to competition dates. Our chapter has compiled resources (which will be available once you are a part of the chapter), as well as opportunities to help prepare you to succeed. However, we do recommend preparing for competitions on your own time as well.
WHAT IS AN EVENT?
An event provides a topic for your competition in DECA. The event is what will dictate what your competition guidelines and success criteria is.
HOW DO I CHOSE AN EVENT?
Your event is your own choice, meaning you may choose any event. Click here if you require assistance choosing an event. NOTE: events are assigned on a first-come-first-served basis. Please prepare a list of your top three choices if availability is gone.
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
First, pay the membership fees on School Cash Online AND DECA’s website. Then, bring evidence of payment, and the membership form to the business pod to register for your event.