FCCLA: Leadership Beyond High School

         First, I think it’s important that I introduce myself. My name is Trent Misak and I am a college sophomore at Southwestern Oklahoma State University where I study Mass Communications and am part of the Orientation Leader Program where I serve as an Advisory Board Member. Most importantly though, I am a product of how FCCLA can make an impact on your life and help make you become a better leader in today’s society. I served as the National VP of Membership in 2010-2011 and I'm currently a member of the Leadership Training Team (LTT). FCCLA has continued to be a part of my life even though I am not an active member. That’s why I want to share with everyone that what you learn in FCCLA doesn’t stop in high school; it stays with you and helps you in the rest of your life.  

I could tell so many stories about how I have used what I learned in FCCLA while being a college student, but I will just give you two ways. First, it has helped me be outgoing. College is a time where you start over and make new friends and become part of different organizations. Being active in FCCLA and attending conferences helped me become an outgoing person and not afraid to go out of my comfort zone and make new friends. Second, I developed leadership skills in FCCLA such as, public speaking, organization, punctuality, professionalism, and networking, just to name a few. Each of these has helped me either in the classroom, Orientation Program, developing relationships with important campus leaders, and being an overall good person.

FCCLA gives members so many opportunities and it is important that former members don’t forget to give back. Get involved with a local chapter, evaluate STAR Events, volunteer at conferences or apply to become part of the LTT. Your alumni involvement will continue to allow opportunities for FCCLA members to have, “The Ultimate Leadership Experience” that you had.  

In today’s society having leadership skills is vital. Being active in FCCLA will give you the tools necessary for becoming that effective leader. Think to yourself, “Where would I be without FCCLA?” Sometimes you will be amazed at where FCCLA has taken you and how it has changed your life. 

                                                                                              

Leadership Training Team
L to R: Kristen Ray, Leilani Mullins, Trent Misak, Andrew Schantz (national staff), Molly Sullivan, Caroline Weir