From March 4 to 6, Edison High School’s Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) chapter showcased its skills at the New Jersey State Career Development Conference (SCDC) 2024. Departing for Atlantic City in the early hours of March 4, the team set out, ready to make their mark on the prestigious competition.
The 2024 DECA chapter, the largest group in Edison history, stayed at the Harrah’s Resort. Over 100 dedicated members from Edison High School demonstrated their business knowledge while competing across a variety of categories. From strategic business plans to innovative marketing campaigns, each participant brought forth their unique skills and insights to the table.
But, the trip wasn’t just about competition—it was a learning experience. As competitors navigated the challenges of time management and teamwork, students learned invaluable lessons in the responsibility and collaboration necessary in the business world.
“The journey through DECA was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Maha Khan ‘24, DECA co-president. “Becoming president was one of my best achievements, and watching and contributing to the growth of this club from about 80 to almost 130 members was surreal.”
On March 6, the team returned home, some with awards, and with twelve students qualifying for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Anaheim, California. Specifically, 21 finalists proudly took the stage, securing eleven instructional awards.
“The trip was really fun because I got to hang out with my friends, do something I normally would never do, and compete in a competitive environment in which I thrive in,” said Ishaan Kunwar ‘26.
As they reflect on their journey, the Edison High DECA students carry memories of companionship, perseverance, and triumph. Their success at SCDC is reflected in their achievements and highlights the unwavering support of their advisors and the entire school community.
Harrah’s Resort worked with DECA to create locations where students could participate in engaging activities with their peers, such as Downtown DECA. Downtown DECA allowed students to unwind and enjoy karaoke, a game of ping-pong, video games, or simply receiving their own DECA T-shirt.
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Charvi Padmanabhini ’24, on stage at the awards ceremony, qualifies for the ICDC conference in Hospitality and Tourism Professional Selling.
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The NJ DECA State Officers wave towards the crowd during the opening ceremony as the audience roars in excitement.
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NJ DECA Southern Region Vice President Dillon Dukes speaks during chapter roll-call in the opening ceremony of the State Career Development Conference.
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NJ DECA State Advisor Dr. Jeff Victor speaks at the opening ceremony of the State Career Development Conference at Harrah’s in Atlantic City.
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Students file into Wildwood Ballroom #5 at Harrah’s Resort in anticipation of the opening ceremony at the State Career Development Conference.
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The view from the 6th floor in the Atrium Tower at Harrah’s Resort.
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“In downtown DECA, where dreams take flight, I sang karaoke through the night, with hype and laughter—a joyous sight,” said Kanishk Ragimanu ‘25.
After returning home, these emerging leaders reflected on the valuable lessons learned from this memorable experience.
ICDC Qualifiers:
Project Management: Business Solutions Project
Abi Adif ‘25, Haitam Boukheraz ‘25, Arnav Kommaraju ‘25
Entrepreneurship: Independent Business Plan
Gauri Kshettry ‘25, Twisha Patel ‘25, Sarthi Shah ‘25
International Business Plan
Kanishk Ragimanu ‘25, Zashaan Shaik ‘25, Vedant Talati ‘25
Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making
Gauri Kshettry ‘25, Twisha Patel ‘25
Principles of Hospitality & Tourism
Shriaditi Kancherla ‘26
Financial Consulting
Sanika Manjrekar ‘24
Hospitality & Tourism Professional Selling
Charvi Padmanabhini ‘24
Food Marketing Series
Sushanth Balaraman ‘24
Apparel & Accessories Marketing
Archana Maryada ‘25
Business Services Marketing
Vedant Talati ‘25
