Taylor D. Sarman, FBLA National President
Nearly every high school student has heard the phrase, “change is the only constant.” This anecdote is a reminder to us all that change challenges us to grow, learn, prosper, and is, ultimately, a virtuous aspect of life. Even now, early in my life, I have undergone, as countless other students have, many changes that have advanced my own skills and made me stronger in one way or another. One of these changes has been the introduction of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in my life.
As a high school freshman, I was the shy student who sat towards the back of the room and did not like to speak in public unless I absolutely had to—that was until I enrolled in one of my school’s business leadership classes. From day one in this business course, I was challenged to get out of my comfort zone, try new things, and advance skills that I was not even aware I had. I was exposed to real world situations, provided opportunities to solve problems, and asked to lead others in our class. Eventually this change in my life would come full circle when it introduced me to one of the best experiences of my high school career—Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).
It was in that very classroom that I was introduced and, ultimately, fell in love with FBLA. Through FBLA and CTE, my confidence level exploded, my work ethic prospered, and my understanding of the world around me—and how I could contribute to it—has advanced by leaps and bounds. CTE and FBLA forever changed my life and continue to give me the skills to develop with new changes in my life.
As we celebrate CTE Month this February, I ask you to reflect back on the impact that CTE and our organization has had on your life. I know my story is not unlike the countless others I have heard this year as National President. Through CTE and FBLA, students are inspired to get involved in their community, start their own entrepreneurial efforts, and undoubtedly have had their lives impacted forever.
In a world where change is the only constant, students who are enrolled in CTE courses and involved in Career and Technical Student Organizations are fully prepared to tackle any challenge that presents itself. To celebrate this CTE Month, I welcome you to share the impacts of CTE and FBLA in your life with me at fblapres@fbla.org and also to share it with other students in your school, because it is your personal story that truly exemplifies the importance of CTE in our country.
Happy Adviser Appreciation Day! February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. To celebrate, USA TODAY Education is offering advisers free access to its 
