The Do’s and Don’t-s of the State Career Development Conference

By Nicholas Brophy

• Do prepare for competition. Of course, SCDC is a fun and exciting experience. But more than that, it is a chance to showcase the skills you have developed and the work you have devoted to your competition. Study, go over your presentations, meditate — whatever may help you get on stage to earn that DECA glass.
• Don’t hide away in your room. The State Conference is an opportunity to meet and network with people from across New Jersey. These peers can help give advice on competition, provide new opinions or ideas, or simply serve as new friends during your time in Atlantic City.
• Do wear proper clothing. Dress code should be followed at all times, especially when competing. When participating in Downtown DECA, we encourage all members to wear casual clothes — including jeans — as long as they are appropriate. We also implore all members to wear their NJ State Conference shirt, which displays that they are #NJDECABOLD.
• Don’t get discouraged if things don’t go your way. Sometimes competition doesn’t always go as you expect it. However, you should take these small deterrents and use them to improve and excel in future competitions. As long as you try your best, you should keep your head up!
• Do follow the rules. For much of States, you will be on your own or with your friends. Without direct supervision at all times, it may seem easy to do things you shouldn’t do. Try to avoid making a bad mistake that will get you into trouble — or worse, sent home.
• Don’t forget any essentials. Packing for SCDC can be overwhelming; you are trying to figure out which clothes still fit, which shoes you should bring, and which blazer looks most stylish. While doing so, you may forget about more basic necessities, like toothpaste, a toothbrush, a hairbrush, snacks, etc. A more comprehensive list of essential materials can be found in the article “States Survival Guide,” written by State President Dana Schoolsky.