Vincent Hsiao

Kyla Spiegelglas (11) didn’t start high school with a clear idea of what she wanted to do. Spiegelglass saw herself becoming a teacher or a singer, but after hearing about DECA from her friend and taking an introductory business class, she decided to give the club a chance her sophomore year.

DECA is a national organization that prepares high school and college students for careers in marketing and finance. Students compete in various events that simulate real-world business scenarios, such as role plays or written marketing campaigns, that are judged by professionals in the field.

“DECA has forced me to network with and talk to people I wouldn’t have otherwise,” Spiegelglass said. 

Spiegelglass currently serves as Ladue DECA’s Vice President of Business Partnerships, and she uses the connections she has learned to coordinate speaker events and community sponsorships. Last year, she placed third at districts, was a finalist at state and poured countless hours into a written marketing campaign for her father’s construction business. 

“Kyla’s very involved,” business teacher Jace Mortimer said. “She is someone you want in your program. A lot of our younger DECA members are going to see her as somebody that they can look up to and go to for help [and] advice.”

Some might see DECA as just another club; Spiegelglass sees it as an experience that builds real-world readiness. 

“DECA has natural consequences,” Spiegelglass said. “If you procrastinate, you’re not gonna do well.”

Still, the rewards of DECA go beyond medals, money or competitions. Spiegelglass has gained not only communication skills and leadership experience, but also meaningful friendships and mentorships that will carry on throughout her life.

“It doesn’t matter if you want to be involved in business [or not], you’re always going to have to [be], no matter what field you’re going into,” Spiegelglass said.

For now, Spiegelglass is focused on continuing her DECA journey throughout the rest of her junior year, and into her senior year. She encourages underclassmen to get involved in the organization.  

“It’s definitely difficult, but it’s something I would recommend to everyone,” Spiegelglass said.