Written by Charlie Pohlson, Staff Writer
“If you’re someone who enjoys consumer sciences classes here, you’ll enjoy FCCLA. It’s a great way to have a creative outlet,” said Melissa Sucevich, the club adviser of Family, Consumer and Career Leaders of America, and one of the culinary teachers here at Indian Trail High School and Academy.
“It allows students to display their skills in anything related to family and consumer science,” Sucevich said.
FCCLA’s Indian Trail chapter traveled to the state competition in early April.
“[It] shows you how it feels to be on a cooking show,” said Amber Schaab, a FCCLA member.
“I think the experience was crucial to my confidence in the kitchen,” said Vanessa Bush, another member.
Both Schaab and Bush won silver in their respective competitions. Competition categories include, but are not limited to, culinary, teaching, advocacy, fashion construction and fashion design. Two members, Taylor Wimberly and Jaden Zuzinec, won gold — and earned the highest scores in all of the state. They competed in baking and children’s literature competitions, respectively.
“It was an amazing experience to see all my hard work pay off,” said Wimberly.
“My favorite group that I read to was a classroom of second graders at Nash Elementary School. I had a lot of fun!!” said Zuzinec.
All in all, Indian Trail’s FCCLA members took home gold, silver, and bronze medals in culinary creations, baking, garnish, advocacy, and children’s literature. Although the chapter is not moving on to the international level, Sucevich said the club members tried their best to make it as far as they could.
FCCLA’s state competition isn’t all work, however. Participants have multiple opportunities for free time to get to know other members or go to the waterpark. They can also run for a state office and listen to a keynote speaker. This year, it was Kat Perkins, a finalist from Season 6 of “The Voice.” She was there to give everyone a motivational speech.
“So far, FCCLA has taught me that you’ve got to believe in yourself,” said Bush. “If you believe in yourself, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. FCCLA also taught me that if you are confident in your work, typically the outcome is even better than what you originally expected it to be.”
FCCLA meets every other Wednesday in Room 1500.