Episcopal Academy senior Abhay Malik won second place at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference.
More than 9,000 high school students from across the United States and abroad attended the event held June 29 - July 2 in Atlanta, Georgia.
During the four-day event, the future business leaders showcased their talents as they competed for the opportunity to win more than $179,000 in cash awards. The conference is also designed to enhance participants' business skills and provide networking opportunities. Attendees took part in more than 65 business and business-related competitive events.
Abhay, who is the president of Episcopal's FBLA chapter, competed in the Business Calculations event and won second place at the national level. "This event provides recognition for FBLA members who have an understanding of mathematical functions in business applications," explained Upper School history teacher and FBLA advisor Andrew Hess.
The business test consists of calculations performed in the business environment. Areas of emphasis also include: mark-ups and discounts, investments, bank records, insurance, interest rates, payroll, ratios and proportions, depreciation, consumer credit, and taxes.
"The FBLA National Conference in Atlanta was really an amazing experience as I was able to connect with a variety of bright students who all shared a common interest in business," said Abhay. "Through FBLA, I was able to learn about vital topics in the business world and compete against thousands of other students from around the country. I am delighted to have represented Episcopal and Pennsylvania at the National Conference and to have brought home a second place win!"
Mr. Hess said, "This is distinguished achievement for Abhay, who started the FBLA club at Episcopal Academy this year. Abhay was able to secure a first place position at both the regional and state levels, which qualified him to compete at the national level."
The award was part of a comprehensive national competitive events program sponsored by FBLA-PBL that recognizes and rewards excellence in a broad range of business and career-related areas.
"This business experience aligns perfectly with Abhay's ambition to pursue a career in economics and finance," said Mr. Hess.