UW-Stout prides itself on an abundance of organizations for students of all majors and goals. The newest edition to the repertoire, Stout’s own chapter of DECA, is a prime example of the tenacity that Stout’s students bring to the table. DECA, which stands for the Distributive Education Clubs of America, is an organization focused on building business and problem-solving skills. DECA teaches members to think on their feet to solve hard scenarios in a limited time.
Though its roots lead back to business major-focused students over the years it has become a hub for all those interested in building universal skills for almost any career path. Rocklyn Robey, co-founder and vice president of Stout’s DECA team puts it as, “[A] Student organization that prepares young professionals through many different careers focuses for real world relations by building experience and connections. Through competitive events, leadership conferences, and real-world simulations”. As a long-time DECA member throughout school, she describes the experience as a valuable tool for her development in professional life as it, “empowers students to take initiative and pursue excellence…DECA is an amazing resource for those who are willing and interested in starting their professional practice while they are still in college in a welcoming and friendly environment”. Though it is a grassroots organization at Stout, the tenacity of its members like Rocklyn has given the Stout chapter of DECA a strong foundation. Already in the process of full registration, this is a perfect time for students with a passion for personal growth to get in on the ground floor and help build up DECA from the start.
Co-President and freshman Jillian Coleman has been involved in the program since her senior year of high school and has a variety of experience in competition for DECA. In her words on competition days, “you will get a case study which is a small packet. The packet contains a problem within the company as well as your challenge regarding the problem. You will get 30 minutes to read the case study as well as come up with a solution to solve the problem. Afterwards you pitch your solution to the judges. During your pitch you want to hit the “targets” that are written into the case study while pitching your solution. Afterwards they grade your solution, answers, and responses on a point scale.” Competitions happen in late Fall/Spring and in the off-time, members will be planning for competitions, socializing at meetings and enjoying group events like potlucks. It is truly an invaluable resource to be able to think on your feet and those involved with DECA work hard to earn that ability, while also building a strong and fun community.
The UW-Stout chapter of this program not only has two passionate presidents but also many members with the same amount of vehemence for the program. Gavin Brueggeman, a freshman at Stout, has been involved in DECA for 8 years now. He is the vice president of Leadership and Competition for the Stout chapter and heavily involved with the inner workings of competition prep. He says, “If you’re unfamiliar with DECA or unsure of what it’s all about, this is for you…Out of all my high school experiences, DECA stands out as one of the most impactful—filled with unforgettable moments and meaningful connections…DECA offers something for everyone—regardless of your major or interests. I can confidently say: there’s a place for you in DECA.”
It’s no secret that any organization is only as strong as the members allow it to be, and the UW-Stout chapter of DECA has the right people to make the program successful. A former member, Louie Gelphrim, who served a role all 4 years of high school says, “DECA was one of my more valuable experiences in high school. It helped me learn how to communicate in a professional manner and how to organize my ideas to effectively present them.” From first years beginning their college experience to those upperclassmen who are beginning their transition into the working world, DECA has something to offer. If you want to develop lifelong skills and connections while also integrating yourself into a supportive community of peers, DECA is for you.
