With something as unique as SkillsUSA, here are some signs that you were once a proud member:
1. You can never fully explain it to people without going into a 10 minute explanation.
"It's this program for technical schools where kids can compete, but they can also be officers and these are the types of officers and it's nationwide and..."
2. You know about most of the other tech schools in your state from roll call.
"Where are you going this weekend? Oh, there's a tech school out there."
3. Your advisor basically saved your life a couple times.
Losing a badge, grabbing something from your room, finding your headache medication...they were the real MVPs.
4. You have friends from different states or from around your state.
5. You have conference lanyards/medals hung up around your room.
6. You have a couple conference tee shirts...or a drawer full.
7. You're more than familiar with wearing nice clothes in ridiculous conditions.
Wear a blazer? That's fine. Wear a blazer in a room with 2,000 other people or in the Southern heat? .....
8. Teamwork is your middle name.
To get anything done, this is something you had to master.
9. You know how to lead a group.
While teamwork was important, there were times when you had to step up and be a leader.
10. You still know most of the Pledge by heart.
On my honor, I pledge...to never forget this first line, at least.
11. You were star-struck by an officer at least once.
You know you still follow a few on Instagram.
12. You know how to deal with long ceremonies.
The struggle of Awards is all too real.
13. The bar has been set pretty high for dances.
Strobe lights, colorful themes, immense bass...it was pretty epic.
14. You get nostalgic whenever you hear a song from a conference video.
15. You immediately bond with other former members.
"What school did you go to? What competition did you compete in? Did you make it to States? What position in your Chapter were you? Me too!"
16. One of your proudest memories is placing in your competition.
When your whole school cheers and you get to bring a medal home - that's the best feeling.
17. No stress compares to finishing the Leader Award.
At least you got the Mission Statement out of the way!
18. You know which foods to avoid when attending large events.
500 chicken dinners made at the same time can't all be perfect...
19. You gossip about Chapter drama after you graduate.
"THEY'RE President now? Girl..."
20. You miss it more than anything.
