Masco DECA kicks off the year with big goals, record membership growth, and excitement as one of the school’s most popular clubs.
“We’re super excited this year. Our membership goal is 250, which is the largest it’s ever been,” said advisor Marc-Aurele. “I’m most excited about this year, because this is my 4th year, and I’ve watched the seniors grow over the past 4 years.”
DECA is a club that gives students the chance to learn real-world business skills. Members can take part in role-play events, written projects, and presentations. Many also choose to compete at the district, state, and international levels. Each year, Masco sends a strong group of students to states, and in the past years, has had a few qualify for the international competition.
Marc-Aurele explains that the club works hard to make sure everyone has a place in DECA.
“I feel like we are inclusive, we try to have a way for every student who’s interested in the club to participate. Whether they have lots of time or little time in the DECA class or not,” she said.
Students often describe DECA as a welcoming community where they can push themselves and learn new things. Members work on skills like public speaking, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. They also meet people from other schools during competitions, which makes the experience even bigger than just Masco.
Senior Nino Stefanelli is very excited to compete.
“There’s a reason why it’s the biggest club at Masco. There’s many opportunities to gain first hand experience in the business world,” said Stefanelli.
In addition to competitions, DECA runs events during the year that build school spirit and connect members with the community. Fundraisers, activities led by officers, and preparation sessions all help members get ready for the season.
DECA president Genevieve Clapp said, “We are so excited to be starting the DECA season as students are already working hard on their projects which is super exciting since we have some awesome new ideas this year. Officers and advisers have started getting club t-shirts ready, reaching out to sponsors, and more as sign ups are coming in!”
The energy around DECA is already strong, and students say it’s setting the tone for a big year.
Looking ahead, Marc-Aurele has high hopes for where Masco DECA is headed.
“In the next 5 years, I hope we have some DECA glass winners and some top 10 finishers in the international competition,” she said.
Glass awards are given to students who place in the top spots at the international level, which is one of the hardest goals to achieve in DECA.
The excitement around DECA is clear from how many students want to join. With a membership goal of 250, the club would be the largest it has ever been in school history.
“I think it shows that students want to challenge themselves and be part of something bigger,” Marc-Aurele said.
With more opportunities than ever before, Masco DECA is set for another strong year of growth, competition and student success.