On Feb. 15 and 16, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) hosted their annual tests, which are designed to test a student’s knowledge on a business-related subject. These subjects range from Accounting I or II to Microsoft IT.
A week before the test day, students are given a packet that includes their topic and all the subtopics that will likely show up on the test. The unknown nature of the questions creates stress for some students.
“Since all we get to prepare is a few sheets of paper full of what the questions could look like, we aren’t given much to prepare with and it’s nerve wracking,” junior Renee Fox said.
There are two types of tests, objective tests and performance tests. Objective tests are where students must complete 100 questions in 50 minutes based on their topic. Performance tests are centered around a group of people giving some sort of presentation in front of judges on topics such as hotel management or public speaking.
“If you’ve taken any of the classes that the tests are based on, then you’re in good hands, but if this is your first time with that topic then you really need to buckle down,” junior Madison Baham said.
Students are only given a week in advance to study for their test whether it be objective or performance. These tests determine if the student is able to make it to the state competition. If they win there, they are eligible to go to nationals which is a three-day trip to a state that differs every year. This year it will be held in Orlando, FL.
This year the national test will be on April 12 and 13, which overlaps with Prom on Saturday, April 13, which creates a big conflict for some upperclassmen.
However, FBLA admissions is now offering a fully online test where students can still take the test and win a medal without physically being there.
If you’re looking to join FBLA, visit Mrs. Shultz in room 242. Students must pay a $15 registration fee to take the tests in the 2024-2025 school year.
