DECA, which stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a student organization that prepares members for careers in business, marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Students compete in events that test skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. DECA competitions take place on 01/09/2026 at Intercontinental Hotel in St. Paul with opportunities to advance to state and national levels.

Freshman Vienna Yang joined DECA this year to learn more about business and try something new. With parents who own businesses, Yang has always been interested in business and hopes to own one herself someday. “How would you ever know if you’ve never tried?” Yang said, explaining the motto that inspired her to join.

Although she missed early meetings due to a fall sport, Yang quickly adjusted with help from friends and began feeling more comfortable in the club. “I felt kind of out of place at first, but my friends really helped me feel connected,” she shared. As a first-year member, she and her partner are competing in multiple events, which has made her schedule busy and sometimes stressful.

One of Yang’s biggest challenges is presenting in front of judges, especially when competing against many other students. “Talking to the judges is definitely the most nerve-racking part,” Yang said. Despite the nerves, she is excited to wear business casual clothing and enjoys the professional atmosphere of competitions.

Through DECA, Yang hopes to improve her critical thinking and problem-solving skills, especially in customer service and hospitality-related events. “Those events really push you to think quickly and respond on the spot,” she explained. Yang is excited to continue growing through DECA and see where the experience takes her.