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Professionalism Instilled by Gretchen Ross, Heather Hickman to BHS DECA Students Prior to Competition

By Trina Runner on March 13, 2017 via Connect-Bridgeport.com

In preparation of the West Virginia DECA Career Development Conference and Competition this weekend, students from Bridgeport High School’s DECA chapter were treated to some professional advice on how to win the judges over.  The 25 BHS competitors gathered at BHS Thursday night to listen to Independent Senior Beauty Consultant for Mary Kay, Heather Hick, teach them about professional make-up application and proper skincare.
 
“Our appearance is what makes the first impression in workplace situations,” said Hickman.  “It’s important to start young and have proper skincare routines for both men and women.  It’s also important to show young girls the proper makeup applications for business settings.”
 
Hickman demonstrated various techniques on the students and answered questions pertaining to how to best be prepared for the competitions.
 
Following Hickman’s interactive demonstration, Bridgeport resident and local WBOY News Anchor, Gretchen Ross, trained the students in presentational skills. She led the students through voice exercises that are often used in theatrical workshops and showed them the importance of projecting their voices, enunciation, and proper grammar.
 
“We discussed how non-verbal communication can play such a vital role in presentations,” said Ross.  “Whether it’s dressing professionally, limiting gestures, or maintaining eye contact, the judges are watching every detail during the competition. We also practiced firm handshakes and networking skills that are necessary in business situations.”
 
The group will be traveling to Charleston Sunday to compete among over 400 students from around the state in events that are centered around entrepreneurship, advertising, marketing, management, finance and hospitality.  They have been preparing weekly for the competition since November and have completed 22 written projects in addition to the exams, role-play situations and case studies in which they will participate. 
 
“We are so thankful that Gretchen and Heather volunteered their time to help prepare us for the professionalism needed in the competition,” said BHS Freshman Alden Smith.  “We have spent a lot of time and effort making sure we are prepared academically, and the two of them really helped put the finishing touches on the process so we can present confidently and professionally.”
 
 


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