by Abigail Romeo

GS’s DECA team has qualified for States.  

The program has sky-rocketed in the last two school years. DECA is preparing high school students for careers specified in marketing, business, finances, hospitality and management.  

“Mrs. Pozik told my friend Lola and I about it, and it seemed fun and outside of my comfort zone, so I wanted to do it,” junior Hope Ewing said.  

Students were introduced to the program in the 2024-2025 school year and sprang into action.  

“I was looking to expand and strengthen our business department and noticed that we didn’t have a club for students to join,” Business Teacher Mrs. Rachael Pozik said. “I met with PA DECA representatives and decided it would be a great fit for our students.” 

Starting the organization, the main focus was the amount of impact it would have. 

“DECA helps to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world, preparing students to become future business leaders while positively representing their school in the community,” Mrs. Pozik said.  

Students often find the program as something that helps them to pursue their future careers and create new adventures within their high school education.  

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 DECA Club students pose outside of Duquesne’s business building after their district competition.

Photo Courtesy: Mrs. Pozik

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“I saw it as a way to pursue my specific career, heard about adventuring to different places,” junior Connor Wilson said.  

Skills are needed within the program; students grow as they move forward.  

“I have gained problem solving, confidence when talking in front of people, communication skills and time management while in DECA,” Ewing said.  

Committing to the DECA program throughout high school shows a strong level of dedication, responsibility and personal growth, even with the demanding commitments.   

“The pressure of going into an event and only having 15 minutes or less to present your project or role play,” Wilson said.  

The dedication from all students and staff elevates the importance of the organization.  

“Many schools have been involved with DECA much longer than we have and even have dedicated classes for their events,” Business Teacher Mr. Tyler Brinton said.  

As the 18 students prepare for State competition, set for February 18, 19, and 20 in Hershey, excitement and nerves are building among the students.  

“I felt proud of myself and the team because in my first year, about 85% of the team made it to States,” Wilson said. “Now that we have grown from last year, most of the team will return to Hershey, for another fun time.”