Recently our beloved Yorba Linda High’s Future Business Leaders of America club competed at Sacramento, California. The competition was a three day long event, through April 27th to April 30th, with case study objective tests starting on the first day to case study competitions being present on the second day, and with the objective tests for all participants concluding the last day. 

Although, this event was not just filled with tests. This competition was a three day long event, with attendance of schools across California held in order for members to meet with new people who hold similar interests from karaoke singing to the intense game of Jenga, the southern society was packed with excitement. “I met a lot of new people, and I enjoyed socializing with them about their events and seeing how hardworking everyone was,” states Grace Peng (9). Mrs. Waltemyer (staff), the business teacher and an advisor on the trip states, “I met some advisors while proctoring some of the exams. They were really nice and helpful to me. They provided some great words of encouragement as well.” 

Many highlights of the trip were cheering on fellow classmates Camille Khong, Naina Brar, Jeanelle Wu, Megan Tsou, Hunaina Hiriji and Kiera Flores as they received their awards for their competitive events. “My favorite part was during the awards ceremony, where I got to cheer on and congratulate fellow FBLA members” says Grace. With screams of “Woo Hoo ” that erupted as names from Yorba Linda high school, pride and morale of Yorba Linda High School consumed the auditorium. “I was lucky enough to have such a supportive group behind me cheering me on no matter what circumstance,” recalls Camille Khong (12). 

Mrs. Waltemeyer states a life lesson she took away from this event, saying “I learned that no matter what circumstances arise, if we keep calm and flexible there is always a solution.” Another piece of knowledge gained from the weekend comes from Camille Khong, stating “I learned how important it was to have a strong united team.”  Additionally, Grace Peng says, “Some things I learned from this trip was to spread out study time evenly instead of cramming all in one week/day.” Hunaina Hirji (11) also comments, “Attending the state leadership conference taught me so much about networking.”

Ms. Waltemeyer states, “I loved the trip. We had a great group of students attend. I loved the laughs we shared over meals and simple walking down the street in Sacramento. It’s always a joy being able to support my students in their competitions and watch them succeed.” Hunaina, the newly elected Southern Section President adds on, “Experiences like this provide an opportunity to meet so many people and develop valuable connections. Even getting to know my fellow chapter members was incredible and we truly bonded over the trip…this trip was especially memorable because I was elected as the Southern Section President during the conference. This has been an aspiration of mine since my freshman year, and to be elected is a dream come true.” Congratulations to all competitive members of YL’s Future Business Leaders of America club, and biggest thanks to all advisors and board members who have made this event possible.