We’re well into summer, but your DECA journey doesn’t have to hit pause just because school is out. Whether you’re looking to build your resume, strengthen your leadership skills or stay connected with the DECA community, there are countless ways to make this summer one to remember!
Kick off the Year at DECA’s Emerging Leaders Summit
The Emerging Leaders Summit is the perfect opportunity to build meaningful connections that will last all year long. Whether you're a chapter officer or an association leader, ELS brings together DECA members from across the globe to collaborate, learn and grow. It’s also the ideal setting to set your goals and plan how to take your leadership and involvement in DECA to the next level.
Looking for more ways to Go The Extra at ELS? Check out this article by North Atlantic Region Vice President, Hannah Heidari, for tips on how to make the most of this unforgettable experience and this article by Western Region Vice President, Praveena Mahendran, for Phoenix-based recommendations.
Participate in the Summer of DECA Quest
The Summer of DECA Quest challenge is the perfect way to stay engaged while having fun. This interactive game allows members to complete summer-themed and DECA-related missions, earning points and climbing the leaderboard with each activity. It is a great way to stay connected with DECA over the break and helps you build skills, share experiences and show off your DECA devotion!
Engage with DECA on Social Media
DECA’s social media presence stays strong year-round; summer is no exception. Be sure to follow @DECAInc and your 2025–2026 Executive Officer Team (@hsdecapresident, @decacrvp, @decanarvp, @decasrvp and @decawrvp) to stay up to date on tips, challenges, and member highlights.
Looking to take your involvement one step further? Consider launching your own DECA-focused social media account. It’s a great way to document your journey, share inspiration and connect with members from around the globe.
Revise Your Plans for the Year
Summer is the perfect time to reflect on the past year and reset your goals for the one ahead. Ask yourself:
- What do I want to achieve in DECA this year?
- Are there new events I want to compete in?
- What leadership opportunities can I pursue?
- How can I support my chapter or association?
Use this time to map out your year, from conferences you want to attend to initiatives you’d like to lead. Whether you’re a returning member or just getting started, having a plan can help you make the most of your DECA experience.
No matter how you spend your summer, remember: DECA didn’t stop when that final bell rang. Take advantage of these quiet months to prepare, grow and connect, so when the school year begins, you’re ready to go the extra mile.
