This year's Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state competition was much more than a student business conference. In those four days, as a member of the Monsignor Edward Pace High School competition team, I forged new friendships, found my confidence, and changed my perception of the business world.
In the days that led up to the competition I was nervous but soon I had forgotten my anxiety. After settling in, I prepared for my public speaking competition. Full of confidence and excitement, I began to speak to the other teenagers who were competing in the “Public Speaking” category. I was met by students who shared their life and academic experiences with me, and because of my interactions with them, I have not only become a better student, but a more confident and tolerant individual.
Although I did not win the competition, this experience expanded my boundaries, and capabilities as a student and individual. I lost my fear of speaking in public. On the contrary, I now genuinely enjoy competing in these events because I am able to reach out to other people and they are able to reach out to me. Through these interactions, we are exposed to people and cultures we have never known, which gives us a better, well-rounded perspective of the world around us.
Over the following three days, I spent time with my fellow competitors. We helped each other, and because I chose to participate in this great organization, I have realized that we have preconceived notions about everything, and when we allow those preconceived ideas to affect our decisions, we limit ourselves. I definitely encourage every student to join FBLA and to experience the state competition. It will challenge your ideas, and encourage growth.