There is no doubt that FCCLA positively impacts the lives of each and every one of its members, and that your years in FCCLA will be some of the best in your life. Here are a few things all FCCLA members can agree on.

1. Red Jacket Swag is a real thing

There is no better feeling, for an FCCLA member at least, than putting on that classic Red Blazer. You feel like you could take over the world. Even though it feels like it's about a million degrees while you're wearing it, you wouldn't want to be in any other outfit.

2. Trading pins is actually cool

The state trading pins was always something my chapter and I were obsessed with when it came time for NLC. We even used to have little competitions to see who could collect more.

3. FCCLA Week is the best week of the year

Really, FCCLA week can be summed up in just one sentence: one awesome week to showcase one awesome student organization that is made up of awesome leaders. Isn't that awesome? One whole week dedicated to the best student run, national CTSO out there. Each day members participate in the various themed days and chapters all over the country put together activities in celebration.

4. You look forward to NLC all year

These young leaders know that they are in for the week of their lives, and obviously they're pretty excited. NLC is the National Leadership Conference that is held in a different location each year. Members from all over the U.S. gather here to compete in their chosen STAR events, and celebrate an incredible year. Making it to NLC is the "end goal" and students work all year to make it to this level.

5. You make life long friendships and memories

FCCLA members range from middle school age all the way through high school, and then most dedicated members become alumni's. In that time, you have the opportunity to compete in a State or STAR event, run for leadership positions, and travel the country; as you can imagine, these events lead to a multitude of memories, but the best part is the friendships. There is basically no way to not make friends in this organization. First off, you have your chapter (school) and district/region (made up of schools in your area) that you see pretty frequently. Then, you have your state association which you'll see a couple of times a year, giving you opportunities to make friends from all over your home-state. Finally, the national level is always so much fun because everyone who goes to national events is very dedicated, just like you, and has a true passion for what this organization stands for. You will meet so many people during your time in FCCLA and each one will surely impact your life positively.

6. You actually learn useful life skills

While you are having the time of your life, you are unknowingly learning incredible life skills that you are sure to use for the rest of your life. FCCLA is based on the Family and Consumer Sciences curriculum, which actually prepares students for the real world. Just a few of the skills I learned and still use are sewing, cooking, childcare, public speaking, networking, teamwork, and interview skills.

7. Your chapter/council becomes your family

You spend an entire year with this group of people, of course you'll become close. Plus, with an organization based around family, how can you not become one!