The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Regionals Competition was held on Wednesday, January 29th, at Osborne High School. This event brought together hundreds of students from middle and high schools. Depending on the event, each team of one or more students chose a skill to participate in. They chose a skill that they were particularly passionate about because this could affect their college applications. There were hundreds of events, ranging from public speaking to graphic design to marketing.
Many who attended the competition had been through the process many times, but some were just starting off. The wait times, practicing, and dressing up are all unfamiliar territory. An example is Lily Floyd, a sophomore. This was her first year competing in FBLA, and she competed in the section of graphic design. She enjoyed the whole event and cannot wait to go back to try another time. “We didn’t place this time, but now that we know how it goes, I am confident that we can do better next time,” said Floyd.
Not everyone had to compete on the day of the competition. Many came along because they had already completed an online test. For specific subjects, you would study for a test, take it, and later find out if you made it to the state. At the end of all the presentations the people who would advance to state were announced, including the test takers. Allisane Ponder, a competitor in FBLA, was one of the announced winners. She placed ninth in financial math, which means that she will advance to the State Leadership Conference. “It was hard, but fun,” said Ponder. “I was really scared to take the test without a lot of preparation.”
Going to a competition not only takes preparation but it also takes confidence and time management. Getting up to present in front of judges can be nerve-wracking and exciting all at the same time. Imana Allen, a freshman, participated in her first competition, which was Intro to Public Speaking. In the days leading up to the competition, she had to be able to manage her time well enough so that she was able to practice her sport, do her homework, and practice her speech. She practiced for about thirty minutes a day but still had some challenges when she presented. “The most challenging part was performing in front of the judges,” said Allen.
Participating in any presentations or tests can cause all sorts of emotions including nerves and excitement. No matter what event participants competed in, it provided valuable opportunities that they will be able to use in their future careers.
