What an amazing experience being a State Officer has been. This past year has been one I will never forget, all because of Business Professionals of America. I remember looking back at when the idea of running for State Office was first brought to my attention. I was at that year’s Oklahoma Fall Leadership Conference, and after talking to one of the BPA Officers at that time, and seeing the entire team on stage, I knew that that would be me one day. After lots of hard work, campaigning for several hours, and giving a speech in front of all of Oklahoma BPA, I was on stage as a newly elected State Officer.

Once my term began officially at Nationals, there was so much to look forward to in the future. Being in that position in an organization like BPA, I felt like I could make changes and a difference. This is one of the reasons being an Officer is so amazing because I could. Being able to see the growth of BPA and be a part of it was one of the best parts of being an Officer. Not only that, but I got to meet new people, like members, advisors, and other State Officers, and build new relationships and friendships that will last a lifetime. The team, however, are the people who I will never forget. They know exactly what you are going through because they are doing the same thing. They become your best friends and I am incredibly grateful for them. Being an Officer also allowed me to grow my leadership skills, communication, confidence, and credibility. I was taught everything I know through the training opportunities that come with being an officer. Not only did I use those skills during my time in Office, but I was able to take them and apply them to my everyday life.

Overall, if I had the chance to go back in time and change one thing about my time in Office, I wouldn’t change a single thing. I would not use this word lightly, but my term has been nothing short of perfect. I would encourage everyone to take the chance to run for State Office. The unmatched opportunity it gave me will be one I will never forget.

-Thomas