As a DECA member, you're perfectly positioned to strengthen your scholarship applications. DECA’s scholarship program provides over $200,000 in scholarships to high school and college DECA members at the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) each year.
DECA Inc. administers the program based on guidelines set by the donor. DECA scholarships are strictly merit-based. Your DECA involvement and career interests based on DECA’s career clusters are part of the review process. In order to make your application stand out, highlight all your DECA experience and how the organization has helped you become an emerging leader!
Whether you are submitting an application for a scholarship this year or want to gain some better insight for applying for future scholarships, here's how to leverage your DECA involvement to stand out:
1. DECA Competitive Events
Hone your business and entrepreneurial skills through DECA's competitive events. Choose events that match your interests and career goals and use feedback to fuel improvement. Highlight your achievements and competitive events in which you have participated.
2. Step into a DECA Leadership Role
Lead the way in your DECA chapter as an officer or committee member. Showcase your leadership, communication and collaboration skills. Highlight the initiatives you spearheaded and the impact you created.
3. Make a Difference through Community Service
Give back through service projects that ignite your passion. Detail your role, the project's impact and any recognition your chapter earned, like the Community Service Campaign.
4. Grow at DECA Conferences and Events
Tap into the ideas, networking and growth at DECA conferences – whether local, state/provincial or international. Reflect on how these experiences shaped your academic and professional goals.
5. Find a Mentor through DECA
Many chapters offer mentorship programs through your community or your chapter's professional members. Leverage these professional connections to gain valuable insights, refine your application and demonstrate your commitment to development. Your mentor can also write a letter of recommendation for you.
By spotlighting your DECA experiences and the skills you've acquired, you'll craft a compelling scholarship application that highlights your dedication, leadership and career ambitions.
