From swimming to Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), Chloe Buschmann, junior, is competing all over the country. In March, Buschmann competed at the National Club Swimming Association Junior National Championships in Orlando, Florida. In April, Buschmann competed at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. 

In order to qualify for Junior National Championships, a swimmer needs to meet certain time standards. Buschmann qualified for the 400-yard medley relay, 800-yard freestyle relay, 100-yard butterfly, and the 200-yard freestyle. 

To Buschmann, swimming wasn’t the most important part of the trip. Buschmann was one of thirteen swimmers that her club swim team sent to Orlando. They spent the week together, bonding both in and out of the pool. 

“I liked hanging out with my teammates the most,” Buschmann said. “It was a really fun time.” 

In January, Buschmann competed at DECA Districts at Wayzata High School where she presented a business plan to a board of judges. Two months later, Buschmann competed both individually and as part of a team at State. However, Buschmann didn’t originally qualify for State.

“I didn’t make State, actually, I was scratched in, so my confidence was pretty low and my mindset was basically just to try the best I could and whatever happens happens,” said Buschmann. 

Buschmann placed 1st in her individual event, securing her a place at the ICDC. This was a surprise to Buschmann, as she wasn’t expecting to place at all individually. 

“I was definitely really surprised that I did well in my individual event,” Buschmann said. “I was confident in my team event because I knew my teammates and I knew we had worked really hard.” 

Buschmann, along with teammates Laurel Cox and Meredith Burke, juniors, placed 2nd in their event.  

Because a person is only allowed to compete in one event at ICDC, Buschmann chose to compete in the team event.

Being able to compete in an international event, such as DECA, is a great accomplishment for Buschmann. Not only has it been able to expose her to different levels of competition, but Buschmann has also benefited from taking part in a business simulation like DECA. 

“[DECA] definitely made me more interested in business,” Buschmann said. “I really like the problem-solving aspect and having to quickly think on your feet. Other than that it is really helpful with public speaking and presenting your ideas quickly and efficiently.”