More than 200,000 high school students across the globe are involved in Deca, an organization that helps students prepare for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and business management. Beyond career readiness, students are becoming engaged in their communities through service projects, educational and leadership conferences, and leadership positions.

Now only 15,000 college students are involved in collegiate Deca world wide. Luckily for those 15,000 students, they are gaining the skills necessary to advance in their workforce of choice. We asked a few members of UW-Whitewater's Deca Chapter why they are in Deca.

To get involved Everyone talks about being involved, but what does that mean? It means your spending your free time with another organization, volunteering in your community, meeting people outside of your typical circle, creating connections across campus, and across the nation.

To build your resume Not only does it show you've put yourself out there, but most employers are familiar with the skill sets that Deca members because it is what they are searching for in employees.

The competition improves your interviewing skills You learn how to present yourself when speaking with professionals in your potential industry. This is a place to develop, refine and practice interviewing and workplace skills.

To grow as a leader The personal growth resulting in Deca involvement is huge. Members not only enjoy growing themselves, but seeing everyone else grow and improve their skills.

It's the first step to becoming a CEO Enough said.

Whitewater's Deca will become your family Members take the time to get to know each other on a personal level, resulting in becoming close friends. From social events, to traveling for competitions, these people become some of your biggest cheerleaders.

A group of people with similar interests and values Friendships are formed because the Deca group shares many similar interests. You'll come to know yourself better because of these awesome people.

Winning a competition is something most people will never understand The sense of pride in being called to stage is indescribable. Despite being in different events, were a team and your entire chapter is supporting you the entire time.

It is competitive A lot of our members are not the best at sports, this is a great place to let your competitive side shine.

I'm not really sure why anyone wouldn't want to become apart of a supportive, fun group of people in college, but hopefully you do, and hopefully collegiate Deca is the group that you chose to join. Whether you're an incoming freshman, in your last semester or anywhere between, Deca is ready to welcome you with open arms!

(Plus, collegiate Deca ditches those blue blazers)