Last year when I was elected to the state officer team as secretary, I was unaware of the memories I was about to make. I was the youngest member on the team, and two of the officers on the team had served the year before. From the first meeting, I began to learn how to become professional and to develop a work ethic that will forever be embedded in me. Being a state officer introduced me to a new world. It gave me opportunities to enjoy things I have never been exposed to before. I now have a realistic idea of what the lifestyle of a business professional is like, and I understand fully what I have to do to obtain this lifestyle. The rehearsals and long nights spent practicing speeches have helped me to become a person who shoots for perfection, because as a state officer team, our goal was to always reach for perfection. This year I will provide leadership that will enable my fellow officers to strive for perfection as well!

When State Leadership Conference began, I was amazed by all the people who were there. This was my first year being a part of BPA, and I was still trying to learn what BPA was all about. At the State Leadership Conference, I realized that BPA is all about the students. BPA works hard to enable students to achieve success and acknowledges them for their hard work. The recognition BPA gives and the look on the face of a person who has put so much time and effort in a contest and wins is something extraordinary. When I handed out medals and trophies I felt good inside, and I thank BPA for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the recognition of deserving BPA students.

My experience at the 2010 Fall Leadership Conference was also incredibly memorable. Being a part of the first state officer team to develop and run our own workshop was special, and I’m glad I got to contribute to something historic! My experience as a state officer has molded me into a better leader and a better teammate. Without that experience I don’t know where I will be today!