Valerie Szeto

Hello MASS-DECA! My name is Valerie Szeto and I am a part of the 2011-2012 Massachusetts State Action Team. I amcurrently a senior at Stoughton High School and it is my third year in DECA. As a member of Stoughton High DECA, I have competed at the international level during my sophomore year in Buying and Merchandising Team Decision Making (BMDM), attended two State Career Development Conferences, the International Career Development Conferences in Louisville and Orlando, and the 2010 Fall State Leadership Conference. I also served as a chapter officer on the Stoughton High Action Team.
 
Although DECA is extremely important to me, I am also involved with other school activities. I had served as the class secretary of 2012 for three years, but decided to dedicate 100% of my time to serve as a 2011-2012 state officer. I play field hockey, track, and tennis. I am also the 2011 MVP and captain of the tennis team.
Outside of school related activities, I enjoy hanging out with my closest friends, family, and going shopping. I also love snowboarding, skiing, traveling, and going to the beach whenever I can. Many people would say that I am sincere, honest, hard-working, strong, and outgoing. I use these qualities to the best of my abilities when meeting new people and working with others.
 
My biggest inspiration for running for state office was my dear friend, Erica Melito. She had served as a state officer from 2009-2010 when I was a sophomore and it was my first year in DECA. I had the chance to see all of the exciting things that she was able to accomplish in just one short year. When it was my time to run for office, Erica was there for me every step of the way; guiding me through everything. I could never thank Erica Melito, my advisors, or my chapter, enough for all of the things they have helped me with during my journey into state office.
 
DECA has strongly influenced my life and future career choices in many ways that even words could not describe. As one of eight 2011-2012 state officers, I look forward toworking with Team 53 and creating the best year MASS-DECA has ever seen!