On April 22, East took 35 students to the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) competition in Orlando, Florida. It was one of East’s most successful years, with nine students making it to the final round of their respective competitions. In addition, four teams/individuals placed top three in their events, a record for East.
While not competing, students could take part in various fun activities including going in the hotel’s lazy river and pool, attending the career fair hosted by DECA, purchasing DECA merch, and networking with others. Many also participated in activities in the Orlando area such as visiting Disney Springs or Disney World.
“[There were opportunities to] network with people from all over the world and participate in all sorts of cool activities,” said East DECA competitor Kyle Lehrfeld (‘24).
A highlight of the trip was DECA’s Universal Night, where students could visit both of the Universal theme parks after public hours.
“Although it really started to rain, just being with everyone made [the night] fun,” said Lehrfeld.
Crystal Yeh (‘24), one of East’s winners this year, noted that everyone from East was very supportive of one another and that she was looking forward to next year’s competition beginning regionally in January.
“The best part about winning was being able to share that experience with my friends,” said Yeh.
Nationals next year will be held in Anaheim, California for the first time since 2017, making it the first time any current students will have the opportunity to attend the competition in California. In the meantime, East students will begin preparing for next year’s competition, undoubtedly excited for another successful year ahead.