What is FCCLA? FCCLA stands for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. It is also known as the ultimate leadership experience. There is no other way to describe it. It teaches young individuals about issues dealing with family, work, and society, but to me, it was so much more than that.

When I joined FCCLA my sophomore year of high school I just wanted something that would get me out of my pre-calc class and would look good on college applications. I had no idea what it was. All I knew was that the meetings looked super cool and there was always food involved. I soon found out that FCCLA was more than free food and board games. I regret not joining FCCLA sooner. I never expected it to have such a positive impact on my life.

I joined too late my sophomore year, and didn’t get the opportunity to compete in STAR events (events that members compete in to demonstrate their leadership skills and career preparation while working towards a specific goal), but that did not stop me from continuing to enjoy the fun of FCCLA, and I eventually became a vice president for my high school’s chapter.

The next two years I participated in STAR Events and competed at the state level with my best friend. Thanks to my adviser, who pushed us every day to do our very best, we placed at the state level and got to move on and participate at the National level in San Antonio, Texas. I had never been to something so incredible in my entire life. It was every emotion compiled into one. I was excited to be at the National Convention with all of my friends and thousands of other people from around the country. I was nervous that I had to face a table of judges by myself and present my project. I was scared because I had to walk up on stage in front of thousands of people to accept awards and pray that I did not trip in front of everyone.

Throughout my FCCLA experience, I have met so many different people from all over the United States (shoutout to my Georgia boys). I even had the opportunity of meeting TWO of the (former) FCCLA National Presidents! I have also been to places that I had never been before. I went to Virginia Beach for the first time when I went to the state convention, and I went to Texas for the first time during the national convention. I have finally experienced Whataburger and Hooters with high school teachers. I also have quite the collection of red polos and FCCLA logo t-shirts.

Fundraising for National’s was one of my favorite memories and worst nightmare all in one. National’s did not come cheap, but we set a goal, and we worked hard to reach it. The summer that I went to National’s, my chapter held many different fundraising events. We did car washes, Chinese auctions, raffles, and gourmet cupcake buffets. That year I know we made at least 10,000 cupcakes. I never wanted to look at another cupcake again after that summer (that was true at the time, but who am I kidding, I LOVE cupcakes).

If you are in middle school or high school, I highly suggest that you join FCCLA. It may not seem like a lot of fun from the outside looking in, but once you are in, you will never want to be on the outside again. So, set your goals, work your butt off, fundraise, have fun, make memories, and join FCCLA!! The fun and friends it brings into your life is totally worth the $15 membership dues! I hold a special place in my heart for FCCLA, and I will cherish every memory that I have, and so will you!

P.s. if you join FCCLA make sure that you always have the logo perfectly placed for every picture. It's harder than it seems, and your adviser will fuss at you until you get it right.. (It's crooked in the picture below, sorry Mrs. Comer!!)