Edgar student competes at FBLA nationals in Atlanta

Rachel Schneider is already making a mark in the business world and she has only just finished high school.

Schneider, valedictorian of the Edgar High School Class of 2023, competed against students from all over the country in the Nationals Leadership Conference of Future Business Leaders of American (FBLA). The conference was held in Atlanta, Georgia, June 27-30.

To reach the national competition, Schneider placed first at the State Conference in Green Bay after placing first in a regional conference. The top four students in each category at regionals move on to the state conference so placing first at state was a “huge accomplishment” said Schneider’s teacher, Amy Hahn.

Schneider competed in the category of UX Design, a digital design process that enhances users’ online experiences.

FBLA seeks to prepare students for careers in a variety of business fields by honing their skills through annual competitions. Students choose their topics and categories in the fall and work with teachers and advisors to research and prepare for competition. Some students take written exams to prove their proficiency while others make formal presentations in front of a panel of judges.

Students can compete in 40 categories including accounting, agribusiness, healthcare administration, sports and entertainment marketing/ management, parliamentary procedures, work ethics, coding, graphic design, human resources and more.

“I feel that FBLA helps give students real world experiences and connections that will help them succeed in their personal and professional life after school,” Hahn said. “It helps build confidence and they definitely gain knowledge and skills that are transferable to any job they later obtain.”

Edgar has a tradition of FBLA excellence. Last year, another Edgar student Cael Higgins also made it to nationals. Schneider entered FBLA competitions her first three years in high school and did well but didn’t advance to nationals. Now she is well on her way to a future business career as she begins her post-secondary studies at the University of Minnesota to study civil engineering.