Help Send George to DECA Nationals in Orlando

My name is George Hopkins. I am a sophomore at Northwest Rankin High School, and a second year member of DECA. Their mission statement is “DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.” It puts students in a professional environment where they can learn crucial social skills and technical skills. DECA has something for everyone, with almost any niche you can think of. I joined DECA after my Business Academy teacher, Mr. Black, recommended it to us. My first year, I competed in team events with two different teammates. We placed fourth at District and fifth at State. This year, I decided to compete individually in the Automotive Services Marketing event, where I won both District and State. I’ve learned a lot through DECA. I feel much more comfortable in a professional environment with real professionals, and I feel like DECA is really preparing me to enter the workforce. Last year, although my team qualified for ICDC (the international competition), I wasn’t able to go, since my teammate couldn’t and I learned we qualified on too short of notice anyways. Since I won my event this year, I’ve automatically qualified for ICDC, which is in

Orlando this year. It’ll be the furthest I’ve been from home on my own, but I’m looking forward to being at ICDC with my teachers and the new friends I’ve made. I am looking for businesses who may be willing to help me offset the cost of this trip. If someone helped you in your professional journey, I would love to hear that story along with any donation you may be willing to make.

Thank You!

Here is the official link for more info: https://www.deca.org/conferences/icdc