After claiming 22 top spots in the West Virginia State Competitive Events, Bridgeport High School DECA members recently advanced to the international stage as they competed among more than 20,000 students from all 50 states and nine countries.  The International Career Development Conference and Competition took place April 25-30 in Anaheim, California and for many of the Bridgeport students, it was their first time visiting the West coast.

 

“The flight was long, but once we got there, it was amazing seeing all the tourist attractions we have only seen on television,” said Carlie Crayton.  “We even met one celebrity and had the opportunity to see behind the scenes at the movie studios while they were filming “America’s Got Talent.”

 

Although the BHS students did enjoy time at Disneyland and Universal, as well as seeing the Hollywood sign and visiting the Santa Monica Pier, their real purpose was to compete with other students from around the world. 

 

“There were so many students there,” said Rhe Freeman.  “We met a lot of new friends and exchanged pins from the different locations.  We also worked with our own partners prior to competition to put the finishing touches on our presentations.”

 

The presentations involved months of planning, including the writing of thirty-page papers, interviews, and role play situations.  The students first started their projects in the fall of 2016 and submitted them for competition at West Virginia State DECA CDC in March, breaking the Harrison County record for the most wins.

 

From there, they analyzed their score sheets to prepare for the international competition further studied for potential questions they may be asked in that round.

 

“The projects gave us experience in how to research and apply that research to a real-life situation,” said Caleb Brinson.  “This allowed us to be more professional in our presentations and to network with professionals at the conference.”

 

Three of the students attended leadership training at the Thrive Academy.  By developing leadership skills and utilizing communications techniques, they were able to work collaboratively with students from all over the globe.

 

“Thrive was a great way to immerse us in activities that took us outside our comfort zone,” said Alden Smith.  “We weren’t allowed to be in groups with people we knew, so we learned how to problem solve with people who had different personality types and it was a wonderful way to learn how the real workplace will work.”

 

The Bridgeport High School DECA earned 3 National Awards of Excellence:  One for Jeffrey Chalfant and Brook Russell’s Community Service Project and one for Christina Guirguis’ award-winning business plan.  Additionally, the team also received an award for their Advocacy Campaign.

 

“The trip would not have been possible without the support of local individuals and businesses who donated to our cause and supported us throughout the year” said Jeffrey Chalfant.  “We cannot express how much we appreciate everyone’s support.”

 

After returning from the six-day trip, the team is already planning for next year’s projects. The 2018 International Career Development Conference and Competition will take place in Atlanta, Georgia and BHS DECA is ready to make an impression.

 

“DECA gives us a platform through which we can make a difference and apply what we learn,” said Brook Russell.  “The experience has been amazing and I can’t wait to go next year and show them what we can do.”

 

Students who attended included:  Caleb Brinson, Talen Wagner, Christina Guirguis, Rhe Freeman, Carlie Crayton, Molly Runner, Dakota Swiger, Jake Runner, Logan Crayton, Jeffrey Chalfant, Brook Russell, Ella Flowers, Gia Salentro, and Alden Smith.