After great success at the state-level competition, six members of Hill’s DECA club will move on to the ICDC (International Career Development Conference), an international competition recognizing the top competitors of DECA’s 25 events. This fantastic opportunity provides students with a chance to compete in a variety of business-oriented events, showcasing their creativity and critical thinking skills while representing Hill. Five Hill students will also be attending Cornell University’s Model UN conference, CMUNC. This event will feature a globally focused role-play scenario where Hill students will compete against other chapters.  

DECA is a student-led organization that has chapters in many high schools and colleges across the country. The organization aims to prepare students for careers in marketing, hospitality, management, and finance within a competitive environment. DECA competitions feature written events, role-play scenarios, cluster specific tests that contribute to a participant’s total score. Students may be required to develop marketing plans or financial reports ahead of time, which are then evaluated by professional judges at the competition. All events are highly competitive, requiring critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. This year, ICDC will take place in Orlando, Florida from April 22–25, with an expected attendance of 19,000 students, advisors, and judges. 

In addition to ICDC, Cornell University’s International Affairs Society will host its annual Model UN conference from April 20–23. Model UN is a popular club among high school students where participants role-play as representatives of global powers to discuss and solve current global issues through writing, speaking, and debating. Students do not generally need to qualify for Model UN conferences, but this does not diminish their dedication in any way to discussing and solving various global issues. David Sun, Model UN co-president, stated that “It’s a good way for students to be aware of world events, especially those that are less talked about.” 

Members of DECA and Model UN may experience nerves and anxiety, but the teams are generally excited and hopeful as they enter April. Jeremy Lee, co-president of Model UN and member of DECA, comments, “I’m not really nervous, just excited and blessed to get these opportunities.” Although the conferences are highly competitive, they offer the chance to connect with like-minded and talented individuals, making the trip worthwhile. Participants find the conferences challenging and intensive but ultimately fun and enjoyable. 

DECA and Model UN are always welcoming new additions to their teams and serve as excellent environments for learning and preparing for future careers in business, global affairs, and leadership. As our fellow Hill students embark on these prestigious conferences, we wish them the best of luck in their endeavors.