The following is from Jacke Rapetti, who is going to be a senior at Lakeland High School in Shrub Oak. She is the New York reporter for the Future Business Leaders of America, a national non-profit organization.

The New York State Future Business Leaders of America recently held their State Officer Training in Greenwich, NY. Sixteen students from all over the state worked extremely hard to earn their spot on the State Officer team when they campaigned for their positions at the State Leadership Conference in Ellenville, NY. FBLA is a national organization designed for young students who wish to advance their leadership skills and go far in their future. This organization allows students to compete in events ranging from Public Speaking all the way to Cyber Security.
Jackie Rapetti, who resides in Westchester County, NY, was fortunate enough to be one of the sixteen students, as she was elected NYS Reporter for the 2008-2009 year. During the week of State Officer Training, she participated in various team-building activities and worked hard as vice chairperson of the publicity committee to get the impending year up and running. Jackie was inspired to run for a state position after attending her very first State Leadership Conference in April of 2007. It was a lot of work, but she loved every minute of the campaigning process, from shaking hands at her booth to performing a skit in front of the entire state of NY. Jackie wishes to embrace a career in journalism after she graduates from college. She feels that FBLA has given her opportunities that have helped her to find her true passion and gain a deeper understanding of the business world through enlightening workshops and information sessions. Now, in attending State Officer Training, she has realized what it truly means to be a part of the State Officer Team. It’s a give and take process; FBLA has provided Jackie with many skills and memories for the past 3 years and she believes it is her turn to give back in her 4th year and make it the best one yet.