From Arkansas to Anaheim: ARVA Student Competes at FBLA Nationals 

For Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA) student Anthony, this summer brought an experience he’ll never forget. 

Anthony, a rising 10th grader from Rogers, was ARVA’s sole representative at this year’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference, June 29-July 2 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. The event attracted students from every state and Puerto Rico to compete, learn, and network. 

“My favorite part would most likely be the experience — getting to meet my adviser in person, getting to explore Anaheim, getting to meet with other members of FBLA and learn more about what it’s like, how it operates,” he said. “It was very fun.”  

Anthony’s FBLA adviser — one of two for ARVA students — is Emily Wuichet of Little Rock, who encouraged him to travel to California, and they met in person for the first time in Anaheim. He also enjoyed hearing from keynote speaker Karissa Bodnar, founder and CEO of beauty products company Thrive Causemetics of Los Angeles, an FBLA alumna who inspired students with her story. 

“So one of the main thoughts that was running through my head during this is like, ‘Wow, so many people have made it starting out as members of FBLA,’” Anthony said. “And I hope to be one of them.” 

A Career in Tech 

Anthony, who has attended ARVA since kindergarten, is deeply focused on the school’s computer science career pathway and is considering working in that field. Last summer, he attended an information technology camp at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. His family has Sicilian heritage, and he hopes to one day study at the University of Messina in Italy and pursue a career in political science. 

During the conference, Anthony participated in the Introduction to Information Technology competition, an exam that challenged him with 100 multiple-choice questions to be completed in just 50 minutes, with scoring based on accuracy and speed. He also met other FBLA students and college recruiters. 

“Some of the other state or territory chapters wore matching t-shirts or accessories unique to their state or country, such as Texas wore cowboy hats, while Puerto Rico chose to wear fedoras,” he said. “Many brought their state or country’s flag with them to show their pride.” 

Pin trading was another highlight. “Every state brought unique FBLA pins to the conference that were designed for their state,” he said. 

Anthony also explored internship opportunities and universities from across the country, including the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the Wharton School of Business. 

“UNLV interested me because the recruiter was from Northwest Arkansas, while Wharton interested me because of the prestigious alumni network,” he said. 

An Opportunity That Opens Doors 

Anthony encourages other students to take part in FBLA if they get the chance.  

“It’s a fun experience,” he said. “You get to connect with other members of FBLA. You get to participate in fun events. You get to experience the expo. You could get put on a map for other employers and future colleges.” 

Anthony’s story is one example of how ARVA empowers students to turn their interests into meaningful futures. Beyond academics, ARVA is dedicated to creating a flexible, supportive learning environment where students can explore their passions, acquire career skills, and gain confidence. 

By prioritizing personalized learning and opportunities like FBLA, ARVA helps students become capable, career-ready young adults prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Learn how Arkansas Virtual Academy can help your student take the next step toward their future — visit our How It Works page today! 

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