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Energy. Competition. Networking. This year, the FBLA
National Conference was held in San Antonio, Texas, on the Riverwalk. With the
Alamo just down the road, a mall across the street, 3 large hotels, and more
than 8,000 conference attendees, it was the perfect spot, and FBLA made it come
alive with people. The theme for the conference was “Gateway to Greatness”, and
several Indiana members discovered their own Gateway to Greatness by making it
to the Finals round in their respective events, and placing nationally. Others
discovered their own gateway by interacting with members from across our
nation, as well as strengthening bonds with fellow Indiana members. Also at
Nationals, there was a host of workshops, educating people on how to “Dress for
Success”, turn their swag on (with our very own Laymon Hicks), help promote
FBLA’s National Charity Partner—the March of Dimes, and much, much more.
However, the part of Nationals that
can’t be truly communicated is the energy—you just have to be there and experience
it. At the opening session, members walk into an enormous convention center
with more than 8,000 proud FBLA members cheering and demonstrating their state
pride. The whole conference is immersed in this energy—energy derived from
being in a new, exciting place, being around other people who have a similar
passion for FBLA, and participating in the many events that our National
Officers organized for us, such as the March of Dimes Mini Walk & Dance
Party, free massages, Awards of Excellence, Regional and State Meetings,
General Sessions, Motivational Speakers, and the closing event.
Having attended 2 National
Conferences, I consider it a MUST for members to go at least once. It is one of
the most rewarding experiences one can have within FBLA, and it is well worth
the work to get there. A lot of the time, people don’t even give it a second
thought because of the price tag that comes with it; however the best solution
is to innovate, and find ways around the cost in our struggling economy. This
year I was able to fundraise more than enough money to cover the cost of
nationals, and have some to help for next year, just by buying bulk candy bars
at Sam’s Club, and selling them at my school for a dollar a piece; be creative
and find a way that works for you!. By starting early (now) you’ll have almost
a full year to raise the money without having to empty your own wallet; talk
with your advisor and figure out how you can work with other members to get to
Nationals next year in Anaheim, California. The National Competition is a great
opportunity to develop leadership skills, learn important business knowledge,
establish life-long connections with others members, and foster your passion
for FBLA, all while having a great time! |
