Mercy’s BPA (Business Professionals of America) club has come a long way in just a short time.  The team, which has more than tripled in size from 16 to 49 registered members in just one year, is currently preparing for the Michigan Regional conference, scheduled for January 10, 2014.

When Mrs. Hallie Smith and Ms. Eleasha Tarplin started the club last year, their goal was to give the students who wish to pursue a future in business, an opportunity to learn and explore what that path might look like.

With MI BPA Regional including over 40 different events, Mrs. Tarplin and Mrs. Smith are doing just that and then some. They are helping students prepare for different business-related competitions, ranging from global marketing to interview skills.

“It’s a great way for students to explore possible careers and even get feedback from judges who are currently in that field and profession,” said Mrs. Smith.

According to Mrs. Smith, they spent last year exploring what the BPA chapter would look like at Mercy.

“This year we are trying to have more scheduled organization,” she said.

Vice President of Mercy BPA, sophomore Katherine Perlman agrees. “Last year, since we were a new club, our greatest challenge was preparing for competitions,” said Perlman. “We were not sure what to expect.”

But now that four student members have been to the state conference, the team is better positioned to help the new club members prepare and succeed.

Club treasurer, sophomore Ally Coklow, who attended the BPA fall leadership conference, found it to be fun. “The most important lesson I have learned from BPA is to always push yourself beyond your limit,” Coklow said. “There is always something you can improve on.”