From Feb. 25 – Feb. 28, 2026, Lambert students participated in the DECA State Career Development Conference (SCDC). The yearly event takes place in downtown Atlanta and brings together students from schools all over Georgia to compete in events challenging their leadership, finance, business and hospitality skills. The event teaches students how these skills can be applied in real world situations and lead to greater success in their futures.
Students compete in a variety of competition styles including role-play scenarios, case studies, prepared events and online simulations. Those who participated in a role-play scenario were given a business problem and had to quickly present solutions for these problems in front of judges. They were judged on their problem solving skills and public speaking strategies.
Other students participated in prepared presentation events. Preparation required students in groups to collaborate and build communication skills. Students spent lots of time practicing speeches, studying business strategies and gaining feedback from teachers and peers.
Senior DECA officer Adithi Subramaniam has competed with DECA since her freshman year. She placed for three years in a row, growing stronger each year.
“This year I did the Integrate Marketing Campaign group event and we placed first,” Subramaniam said. “I wanted to do something I could prepare for this year, so I joined the group. We set deadlines, took weekly practice tests and started working on our campaign early to make sure we were covered.”
Beyond competing, Lambert students were able to connect with other people from different schools in Georgia who share the same passion in furthering their marketing and leadership interests. They were able to attend workshops, collaborate with new people and learn about skills and potential careers in the business world.
“DECA has definitely helped with my public speaking skills and with professionalism,” Subramaniam stated. “It has increased my interest in business and helped me find what I’m going to study in college.”
Overall, Lambert students excelled in each event. Multiple groups will be advancing to the national level competition. The conference taught high school students that to succeed in the business world, preparation and hard work is key. Putting in time and effort for each event leads to success. SLC continues to inspire Lambert students to pursue their business and marketing interests while preparing them for future career opportunities.
