Aswini Kake, State Central Area Vice President ​

As the membership year ramps up, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of competitive
events with Future Business Leaders of America! With an extensive roster of over 70 events
divided into three categories—presentations, tests, and case studies—there's something for
everyone, whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a future healthcare administrator, or a tech
genius.
To start off, let’s discuss presentations. The presentation events offer a platform for
students to showcase their communication and organizational skills. These range from 7-minute
presentations accompanied by a slideshow, followed by a 3-minute Q&A session, to straight
speaking events where participants deliver their ideas without visual aids. A helpful tip to
maximize the number of points you earn in a presentation event is to ensure that the headings of
your slides correspond to the associated rubric lines. This correspondence helps ensure that even
if judges miss something while you are speaking, they can see that you have addressed it in your
presentation by looking at the titles. Beyond just meeting the rubric criteria, strive to make
yourself and your presentation stand out. By the time you reach state and national competitions,
everyone you are competing against will be strong competitors, so you want to differentiate
yourself in some way—whether that be through engaging graphics or an attention-grabbing
story.
Our second main category of events is testing. Testing events are optimal for those who
excel at memorization and standardized exams. Each testing event typically involves a rigorous
100-question multiple-choice test that assesses your understanding of specific topics. Preparation
is critical for success in these events. Tools like Quizlet are invaluable resources, as you can find
valuable flashcards and quizzes on various subjects. Don’t forget to review past years' materials
and study guides. Familiarizing yourself with the question formats and the scope of topics can
significantly enhance your confidence and performance on test day.
Our final category of events is case studies. Case study events are often the most
engaging and interactive, combining both written and performance elements. These typically
involve two parts: a preliminary multiple-choice test and a role-play segment at the conference
where you apply your knowledge in a real-world scenario. To maximize your success in case
studies, studying past materials is essential. Additionally, practice with prompts similar to what
you might encounter in competition. Knowing the rubric is equally important; understanding
how to hit each competency will ensure that you excel in your role-play score. Practice makes
perfect—role-playing scenarios with teammates can help you gain confidence and receive
constructive feedback.
Knowing the fundamental types of events that FBLA offers, it is key to note one
additional subdivision: introduction events. FBLA offers underclassmen members the
opportunity to participate in introductory events across all three main types. These events are a
great way for new and younger members to understand what is expected of them while also
learning more about their topics.

Now that you understand what FBLA offers its competitors, the next step is preparation.
Preparation is key to success in competitive events, so plan ahead. Give yourself ample time to
create presentations, learn testing content, and feel prepared for the tasks at hand. FBLA is not
just a competitive organization; it is also a family—so reach out to fellow FBLA members for
advice on your competitive event as well as any feedback they may have for you. Finally, just
remember that practice makes perfect, or as close to it as possible. From presentations to
studying for a test, practice is vital for achieving a favorable outcome.
FBLA’s competitive events create exciting opportunities for building confidence and
gaining real-world experience. Whether you're preparing a presentation, studying for a test, or
memorizing rubric criteria, remember that passion and preparation are your best tools for
success. While this process might feel confusing and stressful, know that you can reach out if
you ever need help. Make sure to take the time to slow down and enjoy the journey because it
will truly be a memorable one!
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Let’s make this competition season unforgettable!
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Hey Illinois FBLA! With the start of a new school year underway many of us FBLA-errs have
started our chapter meetings and have elected our chapter officers. Most of us have
boosting membership as a big goal for both our state and individual chapters. What is the
best way to not only retain current members but also gain new members as well? In my
opinion, the best way is to increase enthusiasm in your chapter!

Many leaders find themselves confused on specific ways to increase the enthusiasm for
their chapter, but I have complied a list of different methods to do so.
1. Set Clear Goals
Start the year by defining clear and achievable goals for your chapter. Involving members in
the goal setting leads to increased excitement. I think that encouraging goal setting
surrounding competitive events is a great way to have all members working towards
something.
2. Create Engaging Meetings
Make your chapter meetings exciting and interactive! Consider incorporating icebreakers,
guest speakers, or engaging activities. Keep meetings concise but direct with the important
information. Encouraging individual members’ input on meeting agendas can also help
them feel more invested in their chapter.
3. Celebrate Achievements
Recognizing accomplishments is a great way to maintain enthusiasm for your chapter!
Celebrating and recognizing members’ successes in completive events and personal
milestones is important for making sure all of the members of your chapter feel
recognized. A suggestion I have is to create a “Member of the Month” program or a
recognition board that highlights contributions and achievements made to your chapter.

4. Foster Leadership Opportunities

Encourage all members to lead their chapter, whether they have a leadership title or not.
This could be to excel and mentor others in their competitive event, helping with chapter
initiatives and events, or running for chapter, area, state, or even national office!
5. Utilize Social Media and Communication
Leverage social media platforms to keep members informed and engaged. Share updates,
event highlights, and inspirational content on your chapter’s Instagram page to keep
members informed and engaged, as well as promote FBLA to non-FBLA members.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!
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 Increasing the participation of your FBLA chapter in community, school, and chapter events is crucial for the growth of both individual members and the chapter as a whole. It's not just about accruing community service hours; it's about discovering a sense of purpose, developing leadership abilities, and establishing valuable connections. Members gain practical experience, refine their communication and teamwork skills, and explore potential career paths through interactions with professionals. Simultaneously, the entire chapter benefits from heightened visibility, stronger community connections, and a reputation for making a positive impact. Through active engagement with the school and community, FBLA chapters demonstrate their dedication to creating a better future, both for their members and the broader world.
    I will share several initiatives you can take to boost involvement in your chapter and reach a higher level of engagement.

1. Mentorship within your chapter: 
 Pair experienced FBLA members with students unfamiliar with the organization to help guide them through the various ins and outs of FBLA. At first glance, FBLA will seem overwhelming or complicated to new members. We have all been that new face or “Freddy Freshman” sitting in our first FBLA meeting, excited to hit the ground running and get involved, but unaware to start. The purpose of mentorship is to guide these new members and help them through their first semester, or even year of FBLA. With an experienced member to rely on, this will ensure new members can make the most of their first year in FBLA. 
 
2. Collaboration with other organizations at your school:
Collaboration with other organizations at your school is an excellent way to promote FBLA-specific activities and opportunities. At my school, our FBLA chapter combines forces with our FFA chapter for an annual community service initiative. Not only do both organizations combine forces to achieve a common goal, but simultaneously expose the other organization’s members to your organization and its goals. This exposure will reach students who may not already be a member of your FBLA chapter and will help to raise interest in FBLA and its activities. As for personal growth, joint events can allow members to expand their network beyond FBLA. 
 
3. Volunteering in your community:
Partner with local organizations like food banks, animal shelters, or homeless shelters. This provides valuable experience in teamwork, problem-solving, and community service. Your chapter could also volunteer at local events such as festivals, marathons, or charity walks. This shows your chapter's commitment to the community and allows members to engage with the public. This will help to raise your FBLA chapter’s notoriety as an organization committed to community betterment and will catch the attention of business leaders in your community who could be interested in partnering with your chapter to provide valuable leadership and business insights.
 
4. Social events:
At FBLA’s core, it is supposed to be an enjoyable experience for its members. While focusing on community service and professionalism is of extreme significance and aligns with FBLA’s mission, you want your FBLA chapter to be a haven for camaraderie and enjoyable to be a member of. Beyond meetings, plan social events to help build friendships and a family dynamic within your chapter where each member feels they belong. Social events could include movie nights, game nights, chapter dinners, or even an outing to your local bowling alley.

5. Delegate responsibilities:
Oftentimes, chapter officers dial into their jobs and single-handedly knock their responsibilities out of the park on their own, which is fantastic! However, a key factor to increasing involvement in your chapter is to get members in on the leadership action by delegating chapter officers’ duties. In my chapter, we assemble specific committees chaired by chapter officers that rely on members’ joint leadership efforts and participation. There are a myriad of methods to reveal leadership opportunities to members. Getting members involved in chapter leadership helps make members feel integral to the function of the chapter as a whole and continue to stay involved members dedicated to the chapter. In addition to the benefit this has on the chapter overall, this also hones members’ individual leadership qualities and could potentially help to replace graduating chapter officers at the end of the year with experienced and committed members.

Additional tips:
Don't be afraid to think outside the box and find unique ways to engage your chapter.  Perhaps a "Shark Tank" style competition for student business ideas or a "Dress for Success" event where members practice professional attire and interview skills could turn into highly acclaimed events within your FBLA chapter and turn into insightful and entertaining events that chapter members will look forward to each year.
Use social media, flyers, announcements, and even school newsletters to promote your events and encourage members to spread the word within their social circles. Also, keep members engaged with regular communication. Use email, social media, or group chats to share updates, announcements, and opportunities.
     Show appreciation for members' contributions. Give out awards for outstanding achievements, volunteer hours, or leadership roles. Who doesn’t love being appreciated and accredited for their dedication and efforts?

I hope you found my tips, tricks, and initiatives to effectively elevate involvement within your chapter’s events and activities insightful. If you have any questions or would like more information on this topic, feel free to reach out and contact me! Here’s to a successful year, Illinois FBLA!

    As we dive into a new academic year filled with challenges, opportunities, and growth, I want to take a moment to address something that’s critical for each of us—balancing academics and mental health. As members of Future Business Leaders of America, we are often driven by a deep sense of ambition and the desire to excel. Whether it’s working hard to achieve high grades, leading extracurricular activities, or taking on leadership positions, the pressure to perform can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, it is important to remember that true success in life is not just about excelling academically or stacking up achievements but also about taking care of your mental and emotional well-being.
    In today's fast-paced and highly competitive world, it can be all too easy to get caught up in the race for success. We often find ourselves juggling numerous responsibilities at once—schoolwork, FBLA projects, part-time jobs, volunteer work, and more. In the process, we may overlook the toll that constant stress and pressure can take on our mental health. Many students experience burnout, anxiety, and even depression due to the relentless demands they face. That’s why striking a balance between academic success and mental health is more important now than ever.
    One of the key lessons I’ve learned as a student and a leader is the importance of effective time management. With so many responsibilities on our plates, it's easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. But by prioritizing tasks and managing our time wisely, we can prevent that sense of overwhelm from taking over. I personally find that using a planner or a digital calendar is incredibly helpful for staying organized and reducing stress. By planning out my week in advance, I can schedule not only time for studying and working on FBLA projects but also time for myself. Whether it’s spending time with friends, exercising, or just relaxing, making time for self-care is essential for maintaining balance.
    Self-care is another crucial component of maintaining good mental health while navigating the challenges of school and leadership responsibilities. We often hear about the importance of self-care, but it’s easy to overlook its value in our day-to-day lives. Taking time to engage in activities that recharge your energy—whether it’s reading, pursuing a hobby, or simply taking a break to meditate—can make a world of difference. It’s important to remember that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. Without taking care of yourself, you won’t have the energy or focus needed to perform at your best academically or in other areas of your life.
    In addition to time management and self-care, it’s also important to set realistic goals for yourself. Ambition is a great trait, but it’s essential to be honest about what you can realistically achieve. Setting unattainable expectations can lead to frustration and added stress, which can harm your mental health. Instead, break your larger goals down into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate your accomplishments along the way, no matter how small they may seem. This will help you maintain a sense of progress and motivation without overwhelming yourself.
    When things get tough—and they inevitably will at some point—remember that you don’t have to face challenges alone. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your mental health is to reach out for help. Whether it’s talking to a teacher, a mentor, a friend, or even a professional counselor, sharing your struggles with someone else can provide much-needed support and perspective. Schools often have mental health resources available, such as counselors or wellness centers, so don’t hesitate to seek out those services when you need them.
    Another way to maintain balance is to take breaks and disconnect from the constant stream of information that bombards us daily. In an age where we are constantly plugged into social media, it’s important to recognize when it’s time to unplug. Taking breaks from screens, especially after long periods of studying, can help clear your mind and improve your focus. Disconnecting from social media, even for a short time, can also alleviate feelings of anxiety or pressure that arise from comparing yourself to others.
    As your Western Area Vice President, I am committed to supporting not just your academic and leadership growth, but also your personal well-being. You are capable of achieving great things, but remember that success is a marathon, not a sprint. Balancing your academic goals with your mental health is key to sustainable success. Let’s work together to make this year a productive and fulfilling one by taking care of ourselves and each other.
    If you ever need someone to talk to, whether about FBLA or anything else, please feel free to reach out. Together, we can achieve our goals while maintaining the balance necessary for a healthy and successful life. Wishing you all the best this year!

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