The annual State Leadership Conference for FCCLA took place at Villa Roma in Callicoon, New York on March 19th through 20th. The conference offered FCCLA members the opportunity to develop leadership, public speaking, and social skills, as well as meet new people.
Students attended leadership workshops including how to manage stress. Chapter members participated in FCCLA Knowledge bowl, attended the Banquet dinner followed by a dance. Outdoorsman John Beede came in as a keynote speaker for this year’s conference. He talked about how we can apply hard work ethic and explained that when we put our mind into something then we are able to accomplish it.
Here are two firsthand experiences about the FCCLA Trip:
My name is Anthonella Velasco. This was my first year participating in an annual State Leadership Conference. I did a Chapter Service Project Portfolio sponsoring a sock drive, with my partner, Leah Singh. Going into this experience, I didn’t know what to expect, I was nervous and unsure. However, with the help of my advisers, chapter members, and partner, I was able to overcome the challenges and learned so much through this experience.
My overall project taught me how even small acts can make a big difference. Thanks to the help within our community, we were able to collect over 260 pairs of socks. This gave me so much happiness being able to make an impact in people’s lives. I am so grateful for having the chance to have been a part of such an amazing event and I am looking forward to many more conferences throughout my high school career.
My name is Jade Gomez and I’m a Freshman at Sewanhaka High School and a chapter member of FCCLA. Last year, I started out FCCLA and participated in a state competition, doing interview skills. However, this year I did a Career Investigation project to which I researched General Cardiology. Though I was still nervous, that soon eased with the help of my advisors and support from my other chapter members. They helped me rehearse for my presentation and gave great advice to calm myself and present well. The experience gave me the opportunity to advance my research skills, public speaking, leadership, time management and interpersonal skills. My project was also a major help, helping me have a deeper understanding of the career I wish to pursue. I am grateful for everyone who gives support and I’m ready to continue this amazing FCCLA journey and take on any new challenges.
In conclusion, this experience allowed our members to learn more about the FCCLA organization. I highly recommend and encourage more student participation. Our FCCLA meetings are held every Monday after school in room 319A.
