What is your name and grade? My name is Hafsa Feroz, and I’m in the 12th grade. I’m a senior. 

How long have you been playing/in the club? I’ve been in DECA for 4 years. 

What is the best memory you have from this year so far? I think the best memory I have this year is prepping for state and staying after school together with other people from DECA. It’s nice to meet people and connect with them to reach a common goal. Taking headshots with everyone was a fun memory, too. 

What is your favorite part of playing/being in the club? My favorite part has to be just the skills I’ve learned from freshman to sophomore year. I’ve grown more social, my public speaking definitely got better, and now I network with people who can become my potential mentors in the future.

How do you overcome the nerves when you’re about to compete? I eat a Clif bar. Then, I go into the presentation, run lines, then go in with my head high.

Do you have a superstition before you compete? I have to be ready at least 30 minutes early, and I pace back and forth when I practice.

Would you recommend anyone to try and if so why? Everyone should try because you’ll build really good skills. You’ll learn how to connect and build your network, and get better at public speaking

What’s been your biggest accomplishment? Last year, I made it to Nationals for the International Career Development Conference.

What’s your favorite activity outside of school? I like to go biking and hang out with friends. I’m not good at bowling, but I like doing it, and I also like reading.

What is your favorite TV show? I would have to say Grey’s Anatomy because I thought I was gonna be a doctor, but now I  want to major in computer science which is something I didn’t really expect growing up.