The DECA Massachusetts States Competition is one of the biggest events of the year for high school business students. After months of preparation—whether fine-tuning a business plan, practicing role-plays, or cramming for last-minute studying—competitors arrived in Boston, ready to put their skills to the test.
The DECA State Conference is where things get real. Students face off in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management events, applying their knowledge to real-world business scenarios. Some events require problem-solving, while others involve presenting detailed written projects that have taken months to develop. Either way, the pressure is on.
The energy at States is chaotic but exciting. Students dart between presentation rooms, huddle in corners for last-minute prep, and hype each other up before their events. For many, this is the most nerve-wracking part of the experience, but it’s also what makes it so rewarding.
Ms. Etes, a DECA advisor, said, “The willingness to speak to business professionals in a positive manner has been gratifying.”
For returning competitors, States is an opportunity to improve on past performances and prove they’ve grown. For first-timers, it’s a chance to see what DECA is all about and experience the high-stakes environment of a state-level competition. No matter their background, every student feels the weight of the moment.
Senior Devin O’Brien was one of the few students who ranked in the top six, earning a place at the next round of competition, the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Orlando this April.
“It felt great to know that our hard work paid off, and now we’re going to have a shot at a glass in April,” said O’Brien, a Masco student who qualified for ICDC.
One of the biggest factors in students’ success is the support from DECA advisors. Whether they’re offering feedback, helping with last-minute nerves, or encouraging students to trust their instincts, their role goes beyond just preparing students academically—it’s about building confidence, too.
“The advisors took a lot of weight off our shoulders and did a lot of work behind the scenes,” said junior Nino Stefanelli.
The moment results are announced is always emotional. For those who qualify for ICDC, it’s a moment of pure excitement and proof that all the hard work has paid off. For others, it can be bittersweet, but still a learning experience that fuels motivation for next year.
“Win or lose, it’s an awesome experience for a high schooler to have under their belt. Presenting in front of a judge takes a lot of bravery,” said junior Sam Richardson.
Now, all eyes turn to ICDC, where the best of the best from across the country will compete. For those moving on, it’s time to prepare for the biggest stage of all. And for everyone else, the journey doesn’t stop here—States is just one step in a larger path of growth, learning, and business competition.