The DECA club is an extremely popular, business-related club. It teaches marketing, finance, hospitality, and management skills to developing managers and entrepreneurs. This organization allows high school and college students to develop and demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of business and leadership skills. 

Joining the DECA club is a great move for several reasons. First, it allows students to explore potential career interests. Students participate in competitive events that simulate real-world business scenarios. This gives students an idea of what it is like to work in different fields, helping them make informed decisions about future careers. Second, DECA offers a learning resources and opportunities for professional development for its members. Finally, DECA is more than just a club; it is a community. Student-members meet like-minded students, make friends, and network with industry professionals. The experiences gained in DECA can make a college application or resume stand out. So, joining the DECA club is not just about learning business; it is about growing as a person and a professional.

DECA District Competition is an event where DECA club members from various schools in a district come together to compete in a series of business-related contests. The competition is designed to replicate real-world scenarios in areas like marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Students are given various scenarios and use their knowledge and skills to solve a problem. Students present their solutions to a panel of judges, usually industry professionals. They have to dress appropriately, present their ideas clearly and convincingly, and handle questions from the judges. It is like a snapshot of the business world, offering a glimpse into what it is like to work in these fields.

DECA teaches students the value of hard work, preparation, and resilience. They have to take a written examination as well as prepare for the competition. Students research topics and practice their presentations. During the competition, they may face tough questions or unexpected scenarios. This helps students learn how to stay calm, think on their feet, and answer questions. These are important qualities in the professional world. 

On December 4, 2023, Apex High School DECA members participated in the District Competition. Students at Apex competed against other Wake County Schools. Eighty-four students from Apex High DECA qualified for states! States is the next round of competition in February 2024. Students who qualified for the state competition from districts across the state will compete against each other. There is even an international competition for qualifiers from each state.

DECA and the DECA competitions are a great way for students to learn  about different types of business, how to think on their feet and express themselves, and what it means to be a professional. It is a great experience for students.