Things to do at SLC
by Bradley Rozario, State President
Illinois FBLA, it’s that time of year again! The State Leadership Conference is right around the corner and this is your chance to be a part of the many great things this conference has to offer. Yes, you come here to compete, but there is so much to do and very little time to do these things. And of course, the question is . . . what exactly is there to do?
Like any other conference, you can attend workshops. These workshops vary in topics and are given by professionals and even officers. So without a doubt, build your knowledge and learn much more at the workshops provided at this year’s SLC.
What else? You cannot miss the tradition of our state talent show. If you have a hidden talent or just want to be brave and do something, this is for you. Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular events at the conference, and the more acts, the better the talent show. So please tell your friends and tell yourself to put something together and show us your talents.
And of course, everyone knows about the dance. The dance is a time to kick back and have fun with the people you know and the people you met. Don’t forget to donate to March of Dimes! Bring money to the dance and donate before you hit the dance floor.
There are so many things to do and so many people to meet at this year’s SLC. Do as much as you can and have fun! Good luck and I hope to see all of you at SLC.
by Bradley Rozario, State President
Illinois FBLA, it’s that time of year again! The State Leadership Conference is right around the corner and this is your chance to be a part of the many great things this conference has to offer. Yes, you come here to compete, but there is so much to do and very little time to do these things. And of course, the question is . . . what exactly is there to do?
Like any other conference, you can attend workshops. These workshops vary in topics and are given by professionals and even officers. So without a doubt, build your knowledge and learn much more at the workshops provided at this year’s SLC.
What else? You cannot miss the tradition of our state talent show. If you have a hidden talent or just want to be brave and do something, this is for you. Without a doubt, this is one of the most popular events at the conference, and the more acts, the better the talent show. So please tell your friends and tell yourself to put something together and show us your talents.
And of course, everyone knows about the dance. The dance is a time to kick back and have fun with the people you know and the people you met. Don’t forget to donate to March of Dimes! Bring money to the dance and donate before you hit the dance floor.
There are so many things to do and so many people to meet at this year’s SLC. Do as much as you can and have fun! Good luck and I hope to see all of you at SLC.
The Art of Public Speaking
by Ean Fox, State Vice President, Southwestern Area
As an FBLA state officer I have had my share of public speaking. From Area Conference, to placing at SLC in Public Speaking I've learned many tips that will improve your public speaking skills. Most people can improve their public speaking by improving their confidence. Confidence, shows the audience that you are not afraid and also that you believe what is coming out of your mouth is true. Confidence came be shown in your voice by speaking clearly, directly, and using tone to your advantage.Confidence can also be shown through your body movements. As shaky knees and frantic movements show fear, standing tall and appropriate hand motions show confidence in your speaking skills and the content of your speech. Having confidence while public speaking will make you more comfortable, which allows audiences to connect and feel comfortable listening to you speak. In my opinion, having confidence is
a very key factor that separates good public speakers from great ones.
by Ean Fox, State Vice President, Southwestern Area
As an FBLA state officer I have had my share of public speaking. From Area Conference, to placing at SLC in Public Speaking I've learned many tips that will improve your public speaking skills. Most people can improve their public speaking by improving their confidence. Confidence, shows the audience that you are not afraid and also that you believe what is coming out of your mouth is true. Confidence came be shown in your voice by speaking clearly, directly, and using tone to your advantage.Confidence can also be shown through your body movements. As shaky knees and frantic movements show fear, standing tall and appropriate hand motions show confidence in your speaking skills and the content of your speech. Having confidence while public speaking will make you more comfortable, which allows audiences to connect and feel comfortable listening to you speak. In my opinion, having confidence is
a very key factor that separates good public speakers from great ones.
How to Increase Membership
by Shruthi Kondin, State Parliamentarian
One of the things that makes FBLA strong is our huge membership. The enthusiasm and passion our members devote to FBLA has made FBLA the organization it is today! Since there’s always room for improvement, we should always make a conscious effort to recruit more members to help FBLA grow and prosper! There are multiple ways to spread the word about FBLA to recruit members!
The first, and perhaps most obvious, is just recruiting family and peers around you! Encourage your friends to join FBLA, sharing with them the valuable skills members gain, like speaking skills and business ethics. Tell your family members to join FBLA as Professional Division members; our professional division members are just as important as our regular student members by providing us with interesting workshops and helping out at conferences. Recruiting members face- to- face is a personal and successful method to helping FBLA grow.
Another tactic at our dispense is everyone’s favorite: social media! The increased technological world we live in today allows us to connect with more and more people. Let’s use this to our advantage and spread the word about FBLA online! Follow our FBLA pages and encourage others to do so as well! Sharing the benefits of FBLA on social media is a great way to motivate others to join FBLA as well. If each of us make efforts to help FBLA develop by increasing our membership numbers, there’s no doubt that we will succeed!
by Shruthi Kondin, State Parliamentarian
One of the things that makes FBLA strong is our huge membership. The enthusiasm and passion our members devote to FBLA has made FBLA the organization it is today! Since there’s always room for improvement, we should always make a conscious effort to recruit more members to help FBLA grow and prosper! There are multiple ways to spread the word about FBLA to recruit members!
The first, and perhaps most obvious, is just recruiting family and peers around you! Encourage your friends to join FBLA, sharing with them the valuable skills members gain, like speaking skills and business ethics. Tell your family members to join FBLA as Professional Division members; our professional division members are just as important as our regular student members by providing us with interesting workshops and helping out at conferences. Recruiting members face- to- face is a personal and successful method to helping FBLA grow.
Another tactic at our dispense is everyone’s favorite: social media! The increased technological world we live in today allows us to connect with more and more people. Let’s use this to our advantage and spread the word about FBLA online! Follow our FBLA pages and encourage others to do so as well! Sharing the benefits of FBLA on social media is a great way to motivate others to join FBLA as well. If each of us make efforts to help FBLA develop by increasing our membership numbers, there’s no doubt that we will succeed!
FBLA-PBL Week
by Sarah Cluff, State Vice President, Western Area
The second week in February is officially acknowledged as FBLA-PBL week, and it is anexcellent opportunity for members to show their FBLA pride! The entire month of February is also known as the National Career and Technical Education (CTE) month, a category of which FBLA-PBL happens to fall under.
FBLA-PBL week officially starts on the second Sunday in February, which is recognized as “Share your FBLA-PBL Story” Day. On this day, members are encouraged to share the experiences they’ve had through FBLA on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter,snapchat, or Instagram. Experiences could include anything from your first day as an FBLA member to the impact FBLA has had on you as a person today. When posting, make sure to use he hashtag #FBLAPBLWeek!
Monday is known as “National Presidents' Forum & Fight to the Finish” Day. On this day, the national presidents from each division (FBLA, PBL, and Professional Division) each hold a live internet broadcast designed to boost FBLA spirit. It’s a great way to promote FBLA-PBL week and encourage participation!
The next day, Tuesday, is “Each One Reach One” Day. This is a day designated to recruit new FBLA members and spread the word about this awesome organization. The official website for FBLA has great resources to help with the recruitment process. Members can participate by texting nonmembers about joining, sharing the recruitment information out in the community, and reaching out to anyone who may be interested in FBLA.
by Sarah Cluff, State Vice President, Western Area
The second week in February is officially acknowledged as FBLA-PBL week, and it is anexcellent opportunity for members to show their FBLA pride! The entire month of February is also known as the National Career and Technical Education (CTE) month, a category of which FBLA-PBL happens to fall under.
FBLA-PBL week officially starts on the second Sunday in February, which is recognized as “Share your FBLA-PBL Story” Day. On this day, members are encouraged to share the experiences they’ve had through FBLA on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter,snapchat, or Instagram. Experiences could include anything from your first day as an FBLA member to the impact FBLA has had on you as a person today. When posting, make sure to use he hashtag #FBLAPBLWeek!
Monday is known as “National Presidents' Forum & Fight to the Finish” Day. On this day, the national presidents from each division (FBLA, PBL, and Professional Division) each hold a live internet broadcast designed to boost FBLA spirit. It’s a great way to promote FBLA-PBL week and encourage participation!
The next day, Tuesday, is “Each One Reach One” Day. This is a day designated to recruit new FBLA members and spread the word about this awesome organization. The official website for FBLA has great resources to help with the recruitment process. Members can participate by texting nonmembers about joining, sharing the recruitment information out in the community, and reaching out to anyone who may be interested in FBLA.
Increasing Membership
by Dalton Veach, State Vice President, Eastern Area
An organization can only be as strong as its membership. How can Illinois FBLA be a better organization? By increasing membership! Local chapters can increase membership through membership drives in various ways. Different social activities and competitions are great ways to increase membership. It’s time to increase membership! Make sure to take advantage of freshman orientation and club fairs. Utilize curriculum nights or parent visits to the school, and lookout for the freshman who were in middle level FBLA. Another great way to increase membership is to have social activities such as movie nights, scavenger hunts, or pizza parties. Also, having competitions between grades to see which grade can recruit the most members is another great way to increase membership, everyone loves competition! Creating a special theme for everyday during FBLA-PBL week is always a fun way to excite classmates and get more students involved. Local chapters should also have competitions on which member can recruit the most professional division members.
Increasing membership can potentially win awards for your chapter and state! These awards are presented at NFLC:
● Largest Local Chapter
● Largest Local Chapter Membership—Professional Division (by affiliation)
● Largest State Chapter
● Largest Increase in State Chapter Membership
● State Recruitment of Chapters (may be FBLA, FBLA-Middle Level, or PBL)
● Largest State Chapter Membership—Professional Division (by affiliation)
In addition, these awards are presented at NLC:
● Largest Local Chapter Membership—top two (2) local chapters in each region
and one (1) national winner
● Largest Local Chapter Membership, Professional Division (by affiliation)—top (2)
local chapters in each region and one (1) national winner
● Largest State Chapter—top two (2) state chapters in each region and one (1)
national winner
● Largest Increase in State Chapter Membership—top two (2) state chapters in
each region and one (1) national winner
● State Recruitment of Chapters—top two (2) state chapters in each region and
one (1) national winner
● Largest State Chapter Membership, Professional Division (by affiliation)—top two
(2) state chapters in each region and one (1) national winner
Professional Division Recruitment
by Trisha Nair, State Vice President, Southern Area
Having trouble finding some professional division members for you local chapter? Don't worry! Here are some tips and tricks on how to reel them in. Professional division members are vital in helping you judge events for area conferences, allotting time for you to present and receive critiques on your own event, or even just giving a second opinion. But how do you recruit such people?
Well, the first problem you might encounter is how you can show them that paying a sum of money only to help others can actually benefit them. Sounds pretty difficult, but it can be done. The first thing you have to do is get an audience. Contact local businesses throughout your town with a professional email. An email that comes from a student seeking advice on their competitive event says a lot more than an email coming from an adviser begging for help on the work load. Once you've got the word out, see who responds. If they don't respond, then take the initiative to make a quick visit to the business location and set up a time when you can talk to someone who can help you.
Now that you've got the audience, it's time to show off the benefits. If they serve as a professional division member for one year, say that you'll advertise their company on your FBLA shirt which is worn on EVERY SINGLE FBLA outing. Say things like "we'll even throw in a free FBLA t-shirt for you. And you get all of that just by paying the small fee of..." Things along the lines of this. Talk about the great publicity benefits they'll receive by helping a large student based organization. The more they get involved, the more perks they get. But remember that there is a difference between persistent and annoying. Try your best but don't annoy the business owners. After all, they are doing a you a favor by even listening.
After trying all of these tips and tricks, finding Professional Division members will hopefully become a little easier.
by Trisha Nair, State Vice President, Southern Area
Having trouble finding some professional division members for you local chapter? Don't worry! Here are some tips and tricks on how to reel them in. Professional division members are vital in helping you judge events for area conferences, allotting time for you to present and receive critiques on your own event, or even just giving a second opinion. But how do you recruit such people?
Well, the first problem you might encounter is how you can show them that paying a sum of money only to help others can actually benefit them. Sounds pretty difficult, but it can be done. The first thing you have to do is get an audience. Contact local businesses throughout your town with a professional email. An email that comes from a student seeking advice on their competitive event says a lot more than an email coming from an adviser begging for help on the work load. Once you've got the word out, see who responds. If they don't respond, then take the initiative to make a quick visit to the business location and set up a time when you can talk to someone who can help you.
Now that you've got the audience, it's time to show off the benefits. If they serve as a professional division member for one year, say that you'll advertise their company on your FBLA shirt which is worn on EVERY SINGLE FBLA outing. Say things like "we'll even throw in a free FBLA t-shirt for you. And you get all of that just by paying the small fee of..." Things along the lines of this. Talk about the great publicity benefits they'll receive by helping a large student based organization. The more they get involved, the more perks they get. But remember that there is a difference between persistent and annoying. Try your best but don't annoy the business owners. After all, they are doing a you a favor by even listening.
After trying all of these tips and tricks, finding Professional Division members will hopefully become a little easier.
Challenge Yourself with the Competitive Events
Pranati Bingi, State Vice President, Central Area
Walt Disney once said, “I have been up against tough competition all my life. I wouldn't know how to get along without it.” Some of the greatest minds would not be where they are if it were not for a little competition. It is safe to say that all successful business leaders had to
overcome obstacles to fight their way to the top. The Future Business Leaders of America gives its members the wonderful opportunity of showcasing their talents through the FBLA National Awards Program. At the State Leadership Conferences, students compete in events testing their business knowledge and skills. Top state winners are then eligible to compete for national awards at the National Leadership Conference each summer.
Competitive events fall into three categories: individual, team, and chapter. Individual and team events focus on skills useful in leadership and career development; chapter events recognize overall achievement and performance in chapter management and growth. At the State Leadership Conferences, the top four participants or teams advance the the National Leadership Conference. First place winners are often awarded cash prizes or scholarships. Qualifying for nationals is definitely an outstanding accomplishment everyone should be striving for.
The question arises-- how do I prepare for my event? On the website, www.fbla-pbl.org, there is a link for competitive events that directs members to the FBLA Competitive Events Online Reference Guide. This is one of the best resources available to competitors, for it includes event guidelines, rating sheets, and videos. In order to excel, it is crucial to take advantage of these resources. It all comes down to your personal hard work and dedication that determines your qualifications and maybe even placement at nationals.
All in all, your participation and effort that goes into your event already shows your determination. If you don’t do as well as you hope one year, try harder the next! More than dedication and determination, it is your courage and passion that pull you above everyone else. The State Officers want to see you succeed in all of your endeavors, and we hope to see you representing our state at the National Leadership Conference!
Pranati Bingi, State Vice President, Central Area
Walt Disney once said, “I have been up against tough competition all my life. I wouldn't know how to get along without it.” Some of the greatest minds would not be where they are if it were not for a little competition. It is safe to say that all successful business leaders had to
overcome obstacles to fight their way to the top. The Future Business Leaders of America gives its members the wonderful opportunity of showcasing their talents through the FBLA National Awards Program. At the State Leadership Conferences, students compete in events testing their business knowledge and skills. Top state winners are then eligible to compete for national awards at the National Leadership Conference each summer.
Competitive events fall into three categories: individual, team, and chapter. Individual and team events focus on skills useful in leadership and career development; chapter events recognize overall achievement and performance in chapter management and growth. At the State Leadership Conferences, the top four participants or teams advance the the National Leadership Conference. First place winners are often awarded cash prizes or scholarships. Qualifying for nationals is definitely an outstanding accomplishment everyone should be striving for.
The question arises-- how do I prepare for my event? On the website, www.fbla-pbl.org, there is a link for competitive events that directs members to the FBLA Competitive Events Online Reference Guide. This is one of the best resources available to competitors, for it includes event guidelines, rating sheets, and videos. In order to excel, it is crucial to take advantage of these resources. It all comes down to your personal hard work and dedication that determines your qualifications and maybe even placement at nationals.
All in all, your participation and effort that goes into your event already shows your determination. If you don’t do as well as you hope one year, try harder the next! More than dedication and determination, it is your courage and passion that pull you above everyone else. The State Officers want to see you succeed in all of your endeavors, and we hope to see you representing our state at the National Leadership Conference!
Keys to Campaigning
by Raj Patel, State Treasurer
Ok, so you’ve decided to run for State Office, now what? Well, even though the State conference might be a while away or even if you are pressed for time, there are certain preparations that need to be made prior to the State Leadership Conference. First of all, make sure you have the strength of your entire school behind you. They are your primary supporters and the source which brands your name to the other members and schools; thus, the undivided support of your own chapter is essential.
Now that you have supporters, you need a platform for the people to believe in. The most import part of this is to be consistent! I cannot stress the significance of being consistent throughout your campaign. Do not say one thing and then minutes later contradict yourself. Along with that, make sure you prepare your campaign such that you have a realistic agenda which you wish to achieve as an officer. Emphasis on realistic. Make sure that you have a defined agenda that is both unique and plausible.
However, most important is your speech at the opening ceremony! Everyone attending the SLC will listen and judge the speech. Especially all the voting delegates with hear the speech and the following question and answer session. Having a quick mind with rapid answers is a great way to show leadership and witty intelligence.
Above all else, be yourself. I know it’s cliche but don’t put on a persona of someone else. Being comfortable as yourself is one of the best traits as a candidate. Be true! Be unique! Be you! Following these simple guidelines, campaigning will be both fun and worth the reward!
by Raj Patel, State Treasurer
Ok, so you’ve decided to run for State Office, now what? Well, even though the State conference might be a while away or even if you are pressed for time, there are certain preparations that need to be made prior to the State Leadership Conference. First of all, make sure you have the strength of your entire school behind you. They are your primary supporters and the source which brands your name to the other members and schools; thus, the undivided support of your own chapter is essential.
Now that you have supporters, you need a platform for the people to believe in. The most import part of this is to be consistent! I cannot stress the significance of being consistent throughout your campaign. Do not say one thing and then minutes later contradict yourself. Along with that, make sure you prepare your campaign such that you have a realistic agenda which you wish to achieve as an officer. Emphasis on realistic. Make sure that you have a defined agenda that is both unique and plausible.
However, most important is your speech at the opening ceremony! Everyone attending the SLC will listen and judge the speech. Especially all the voting delegates with hear the speech and the following question and answer session. Having a quick mind with rapid answers is a great way to show leadership and witty intelligence.
Above all else, be yourself. I know it’s cliche but don’t put on a persona of someone else. Being comfortable as yourself is one of the best traits as a candidate. Be true! Be unique! Be you! Following these simple guidelines, campaigning will be both fun and worth the reward!
Making a Positive Influence in Your Community
by Adriana Feijoo, State Reporter
Future Business Leaders of America is one of the country’s most successful career and technical student organizations for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons students join FBLA is to get involved with helping their community through the various acts of service they are able to be a part of. Whether it be fundraising for March of Dimes or creating a new community service project, FBLA creates a supportive environment that influences make a difference in our world.
For over 40 years, FBLA-PBL has been consistently ranked as the top March of Dimes fundraising partner, raising over $15 million dollars. As a state, we encourage all of our chapters to fundraise for March of Dimes in anyway possible. This year, Mundelein High School used a coin war to raise almost $4,000 and the Northern Area raised $200 through a pie in the face fundraiser. There are so many different ways to fundraise;whether big or small any money we can raise to help premature babies is worth it.
Although March of Dimes is our main partnership, there are many other ways for your chapter to get involved. Here is a list of community service projects you and your chapter can do.
by Adriana Feijoo, State Reporter
Future Business Leaders of America is one of the country’s most successful career and technical student organizations for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons students join FBLA is to get involved with helping their community through the various acts of service they are able to be a part of. Whether it be fundraising for March of Dimes or creating a new community service project, FBLA creates a supportive environment that influences make a difference in our world.
For over 40 years, FBLA-PBL has been consistently ranked as the top March of Dimes fundraising partner, raising over $15 million dollars. As a state, we encourage all of our chapters to fundraise for March of Dimes in anyway possible. This year, Mundelein High School used a coin war to raise almost $4,000 and the Northern Area raised $200 through a pie in the face fundraiser. There are so many different ways to fundraise;whether big or small any money we can raise to help premature babies is worth it.
Although March of Dimes is our main partnership, there are many other ways for your chapter to get involved. Here is a list of community service projects you and your chapter can do.
- Volunteer at a senior citizens home
- Visit your local elementary school and spend a day reading to students
- Partner with your local Relay For Life event
- Fundraise for Operation Christmas Child and use the money to fill boxes
- Volunteer at a local soup kitchen and help serve food
Go Green Initiative
by Hannah Frier, State Vice President, Northern Area
What is the Go Green initiative, what does it have to do with FBLA, and how does it affect you? If you have ever been to the FBLA State Leadership Conference then you may have walked past the Go Green booth. Every year the state officers work hard to create a booth for this very important initiative. If you have not seen it, then you should definitely try to visit it at this year’s conference!
First let’s start off with explaining what exactly the The Go Green initiative is. It aims to teach schools how to implement more eco-friendly practices in order to preserve our natural resources for future generations. This is extremely important because if we don’t treat our environment well now, then it won’t be around later. The Go Green movement has been growing and becoming extremely trendy. Rightfully so, since it’s important and can be easy to do. Helping the environment can be as simple as car pooling with a few friends to school or taking a shorter shower. Before the State leadership conference, I challenge all of you to help the environment in at least one way!
Seeing the importance of the Go Green initiative, FBLA has jumped aboard and started to help in any way that it can. In Illinois we try to have a Go Green booth and workshop at the SLC every year. In other states they have begun implementing the Go Green project! This project requires a chapter to complete a variety of environmentally friendly tasks. These range from recycling 10 objects all the way to visiting a business and helping them create a green initiative. Overall, these go green projects are educational, rewarding, and a lot fun! So what are you waiting for? Get involved in the Go Green initiative and start helping conserve your environment today.
by Hannah Frier, State Vice President, Northern Area
What is the Go Green initiative, what does it have to do with FBLA, and how does it affect you? If you have ever been to the FBLA State Leadership Conference then you may have walked past the Go Green booth. Every year the state officers work hard to create a booth for this very important initiative. If you have not seen it, then you should definitely try to visit it at this year’s conference!
First let’s start off with explaining what exactly the The Go Green initiative is. It aims to teach schools how to implement more eco-friendly practices in order to preserve our natural resources for future generations. This is extremely important because if we don’t treat our environment well now, then it won’t be around later. The Go Green movement has been growing and becoming extremely trendy. Rightfully so, since it’s important and can be easy to do. Helping the environment can be as simple as car pooling with a few friends to school or taking a shorter shower. Before the State leadership conference, I challenge all of you to help the environment in at least one way!
Seeing the importance of the Go Green initiative, FBLA has jumped aboard and started to help in any way that it can. In Illinois we try to have a Go Green booth and workshop at the SLC every year. In other states they have begun implementing the Go Green project! This project requires a chapter to complete a variety of environmentally friendly tasks. These range from recycling 10 objects all the way to visiting a business and helping them create a green initiative. Overall, these go green projects are educational, rewarding, and a lot fun! So what are you waiting for? Get involved in the Go Green initiative and start helping conserve your environment today.
Leaving Your Legacy of Leadership
by Bruna Tavares, State Secretary
This year’s State Leadership Conference in Springfield is only a few weeks away and will be filled with opportunities to build a Legacy of Leadership at every turn! Visit the exhibits for information about fundraising opportunities, colleges and universities, technology vendors, and to network with other future business leaders. This one-of-a-kind experience includes inspirational speakers and cutting-edge workshops to help you leave your Legacy of Leadership!
Of course, an event like this comes with a dress code, and it may take some time to figure out what to pack to make the most out of the experience. So, we have created a what-to-pack list so you will be ready for success at SLC!
by Bruna Tavares, State Secretary
This year’s State Leadership Conference in Springfield is only a few weeks away and will be filled with opportunities to build a Legacy of Leadership at every turn! Visit the exhibits for information about fundraising opportunities, colleges and universities, technology vendors, and to network with other future business leaders. This one-of-a-kind experience includes inspirational speakers and cutting-edge workshops to help you leave your Legacy of Leadership!
Of course, an event like this comes with a dress code, and it may take some time to figure out what to pack to make the most out of the experience. So, we have created a what-to-pack list so you will be ready for success at SLC!
- Appropriate attire is required for all attendees at all general sessions, competitive events, workshops, and other activities unless otherwise stated in the conference program. Conference name badges are part of this dress code and must be worn for all conference functions. Professional attire acceptable for official FBLA-PBL activities includes:
- Males - Business suit with collar dress shirt and necktie; sport coat, dress slacks, collar shirt, and necktie; banded collar shirt may be worn only if sport coat or business suit is worn; dress shoes and socks
- Females - Business suit or pantsuit with blouse; skirt or dress slacks with blouse or sweater; a business dress; capris or gauchos with coordinating jacket/suit, worn below the knee; dress shoes
- Casual attire (including shoes) for socializing times, dining in casual restaurants, etc.
- Pajamas
- Medications - make sure you take any medication(s) you may need throughout the trip, whether it is over the counter medication(s) or prescription medication(s). Check your school’s/chapter’s policy on medication regulation (some schools may require a parent/guardian note stating that you are allowed to regulate the medication, Some may require the medication(s) to be administered by your adviser/chaperone, etc.)
- Toiletries - things like shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion will most likely be provided at the hotel, but it is always good to have the ones you prefer and extras on hand (especially since Illinois FBLA will be taking over the hotels in Springfield!)
- Band aids - you will most likely be doing a lot of walking around while you connect with everyone at the SLC, and dress shoes are known for causing blisters, so make sure you pack easily accessible band aids!
- Notepad/notebook - anything you can write on will definitely come in handy; you will learn so much new information and about so many new opportunities, and writing it all down will help you keep track of everything!
- Pen - you will need something to write with
- Portable chargers - it is very easy for your electronic devices to run out of batteries during your busy day at the SLC
- Chargers - make sure to take chargers for your phone, tablet, laptop, etc.
- Money - to buy souvenirs, food, etc.
- Anything you may need for competitive events! - double check http://www.fbla-pbl.org/files/5614/7317/0046/07_FBLA_Competitive_Events-9-6-16.pdf to make sure you're prepared to succeed!
- Extras of everything! - you may get stains on your clothes, run out of band aids, or have your pen run out of ink, so make sure you’re prepared!
- Yourself - ready to learn, build your Legacy of Leadership, and have the best time of your life!
The Successful Road To Nationals
by David Ying, State Vice President, Central Northern Area
Going to FBLA Nationals may seem like an impossible task. Yet, the potential joy that it brings is just too enticing! Being held in Nashville, TN, then Chicago, IL, Atlanta, GA, and this year in Anaheim, CA, the opportunities are endless! Traveling outside of your hometown may just be enough to get you involved and ready to compete.
There are many ways to get to Anaheim this year. The first of them is simply competing in one of the numerous competitive events that we have to offer. If you place in the top 4 at State, then you’re set. You have qualified for Nationals! However, this is not just the only way that you can make your way to Nationals. Another way is to be an Illinois state officer. As Illinois State President, your costs are covered to travel to the National Conference, with hotelincluded as well. As a State officer, you are also highly encouraged to go as well. Regardless of how you place at the State Conference, you have the chance to go as well.
Other ways that you can attend the National Conference are going with your local chapter. After talking to you adviser, funds can be estimated for your active chapter members to ensure that everyone can attend. Through your involvement with March of Dimes, or completion of Business Achievement Award’s, you can be more inspired to attend the numerous talks and workshops of the National Conference.
We’ll be sure to see you there!
by David Ying, State Vice President, Central Northern Area
Going to FBLA Nationals may seem like an impossible task. Yet, the potential joy that it brings is just too enticing! Being held in Nashville, TN, then Chicago, IL, Atlanta, GA, and this year in Anaheim, CA, the opportunities are endless! Traveling outside of your hometown may just be enough to get you involved and ready to compete.
There are many ways to get to Anaheim this year. The first of them is simply competing in one of the numerous competitive events that we have to offer. If you place in the top 4 at State, then you’re set. You have qualified for Nationals! However, this is not just the only way that you can make your way to Nationals. Another way is to be an Illinois state officer. As Illinois State President, your costs are covered to travel to the National Conference, with hotelincluded as well. As a State officer, you are also highly encouraged to go as well. Regardless of how you place at the State Conference, you have the chance to go as well.
Other ways that you can attend the National Conference are going with your local chapter. After talking to you adviser, funds can be estimated for your active chapter members to ensure that everyone can attend. Through your involvement with March of Dimes, or completion of Business Achievement Award’s, you can be more inspired to attend the numerous talks and workshops of the National Conference.
We’ll be sure to see you there!