​Hey you! Yes you! Thank you. Because in some way, shape or form this past year you have impacted me. As my term comes to a close, I can’t even put into words what you, your chapter, and Florida DECA as an association has done for me. I thought I’d run down a quick list of things I’ve learned this past year that’ll I’ll carry with me!
1.       Always start a project early: There is nothing more stressful than beginning a project the night before it is due or better yet the day it’s due. Our written and video blogs were always due on the 5th of every month and it took me a few months to get into that mindset of earliness. Once I did though, it was so much better.
2.       It’s a process: In the beginning when I first started my video blogs I did take after take because I felt awkward talking to my webcam. By the end though I felt more comfortable speaking like it was a normal conversation! It takes time getting used to.
3.       Lean on others for support: I’ve always struggled with asking others for help or advice because I felt like I was bothering them. You need to though! I could not have imagined this process without texting Manni or Julian for encouragement or support. You need them.
4.       Relationships: Possibly one of my favorite parts of my term was meeting Florida DECA members and staying in touch with them. Use your leadership positions you have now to get to know who you are representing.

I am a chronic over packer. My first CDC I brought three suitcases with me. Three! Granted I probably didn’t even touch 80% of what I brought with me. I was just not a smart packer. I’ve come a long way though and I wanted to share with you a few of my top packing tips for CDC!

1. Always check the schedule! For a conference like CDC, there will be opportunities that you can wear casual clothes and professional dress. I usually pack 4 professional dress outfits   (1- Opening session, 2-Role Play, 3- testing, 4- closing) and 4 casual outfits plus Pajamas.
2. Wrinkle Release is gold. You are bound to have that one shirt, no matter how you fold it, that is going to be nice and wrinkly. I’m not one for waking up early to iron or really ironing at all. All you have to do is spray and shake. Ta Da!

3. If you wouldn’t wear it to your grandma’s house, don’t bring it. Even though you’re relieved from the pressures of the everyday school hustle you still have to be dressed appropriately.  DECA is a professional organization in and out of sessions. So save the tighter dresses, muscle shirts and miniskirts for a different time.
4.      Bag all of your liquids. Possibly the next worst thing besides forgetting a specific shirt or item is having your shampoo drench it. You can also stretch plastic wrap over the mouth of the bottle and then screw the cap on to avoid any mishaps!
For more packing help watch my February video blog dedicated to getting more in your suitcase!  
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