Huntington Business Students Sparkle
Seven Huntington High School business students recently showcased their talents at the 12th annual business leadership competition at St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue.
The event drew 385 students from 21 Long Island high schools. The teenagers vied in 11 different categories. The competition was sponsored by the Young Professionals Chamber of Commerce, a program of the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce.
Accompanied by Huntington business teacher Suzie Biagi, seniors James Alleyne (public relations) and Gregory West (travel and tourism), juniors Yardalie Daniel (entrepreneurship), Janelle Fore (not-for-profit fundraising) and Kelly Tenbus (job interviewing) and sophomores Nicholas Newell (human resources) and Stefan Breskin (sports management) were among the competitors. Mr. Breskin captured second place for his exceptional presentation.
“Every year the level of competition increases and yet our students rise to the occasion,” Mrs. Biagi said. I am so proud of them. So many skills are practiced, ranging from campaign design to persuasive speaking. First, the students must research and develop their project strategies based on the business scenarios they are given. Then they create a budget for their project, define a timeline and publicity tactics, determine venues and a marketing mix and then persuade their judges to appreciate their ideas more than their competition.”
The event’s judges were all professionals in their field. “Their input is invaluable to these young people,” Mrs. Biagi said “Our students are already talking about what to do next year. It’s a wonderful program.”
Members of the Huntington contingent met with Mrs. Biagi for approximately six weeks in the fall on their own time. “They choose a category they would like to compete in and then run with it,” the veteran educator said. “It’s a great deal of work, but it’s so worth it. The students don’t have to be in any particular business class, so often there is a great deal to learn and negotiate before they can even begin to create their presentations.”
The Huntington teenagers dressed professionally and gained experience making presentations under pressure to experts in their respective fields. Judges complimented members of the group on their efforts.
“As far as I’m concerned, everyone was a winner today” Mrs. Biagi said. “The students have so much to be proud of. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next year.”