DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) is an association of marketing students. DECA provides many skills that are necessary in the business world. One of DECA's goals is for its student members to develop a "career success kit" to carry into their business and personal lives after graduation, one that includes:
- Occupational competencies needed for careers in marketing, management and entrepreneurship
- Leadership abilities
- Social and business etiquette
- Understanding and appreciation of civic responsibility
- Ethical behavior in personal and business relationships
- Understanding the role of our free enterprise system in the global economy
In order to accomplish the "career success kit," DECA makes the most of on-the-job experience, chapter projects and a program of competency-based competitive events in specific marketing occupational areas. These events highlight academic and vocational excellence as building blocks for successful marketing and management careers and demonstrate the direct relationship between marketing education and the real needs of business and industry.
DECA is a co-curricular club, which means it goes along with what is taught in the classroom. A lot of the things learned in DECA can also be used in the business world. DECA also helps students develop excellent leadership skills. This is done through leadership camps and seminars. There are also a lot of chapter projects involved with DECA. These allow everyone to help out and get involved.
