I qualified for FBLA Nationals. Is it worth going?

<p>I qualified for FBLA Nationals, but was originally planning on a family trip to another country, where our relatives all live. Also, going to Nashville will cost $1500+, which is more than what my airfare for our family vacation would cost (though not by much, it's $1100 vs. $1500). </p>

<p>Is going to FBLA Nationals going to be beneficial on college apps, regardless of if I place? How much weight will "National Qualifier" (though not an attendee) have? I'm really interested and active in business and would like to attend the National Conference, but finances and family are an issue...It isn't that we can't pay; it's more that we haven't seen family in ages and going to our home country might be more worth it...But at the same time, my parents want me to take advantage of this opportunity and go to Nats.</p>

<p>What do you think?</p>

<p>it’s not worth going. first of all, FBLA’s not that competitive. so many people go to FBLA nationals that it doesn’t mean anything on a college application. there are even some events that don’t even have a regional or state level, you can just go right to nationals. </p>

<p>i’d definitely say go see your family. and you can always put “qualified for FBLA nationals” if you’re applying to a school like Wharton that values business experience like FBLA.</p>

<p>i’d also say get involved in your local chapter more if you want FBLA to matter to your college application. run for office in your state, and if you get elected then it might be worth going to nats. at this point i’d say don’t bother, though.</p>

<p>Coming from an flba national qualifier who is deciding not to attend, don’t go to fbla. It’s not worth it, especially for $1500. Besides if you do not place then there is almost no difference between qualifing and attending. In my opinion, what will stand out on an application will be your first,second, or third place win at states.</p>