Cerritos College students demonstrated their business knowledge and leadership skills on a national stage, earning multiple top-10 finishes, including a national championship at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference held June 6–8 in Las Vegas.
The conference brought together more than 1,300 students from nearly 200 colleges and universities representing 29 states and U.S. territories. Competitors participated in 42 business events while vying for nearly $60,000 in scholarships and cash awards.
Leading the way for Cerritos College was Almarosa Alvarado, who earned First Place in Customer Service, making her a national champion. Additional student achievements included:
- Fourth Place – Job Interview: Amanda Monroy
- Fifth Place – Job Interview: Almarosa Alvarado
- Sixth Place – Job Interview: Zaira Mora
- Seventh Place – Customer Service: Zaira Mora
- Ninth Place – Entrepreneurship: Nathan Pheng, Hilda Rubianes, and Isabella Santacruz
For Alvarado, a re-entry student, the victory represented far more than a competitive achievement. “The conference and winning the competition taught me that I am so much more than my past,” Alvarado said. “With education and hard work, anything is possible. It helped me believe in myself when I was full of doubts. This competition is just the first step toward everything I know I can accomplish in my life.”
Alvarado plans to transfer to California State University, Northridge, to pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting before working for a Big Four accounting firm and eventually giving back to her community.
Beyond the competitions, students attended more than 60 educational workshops and connected with representatives from over 20 colleges, universities, and major employers, including the Alzheimer’s Association, Kendra Scott, and the U.S. Armed Forces.
“The conference offered meaningful networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with peers, business professionals, and presenters from across the country while representing the college professionally,” said Cerritos College Business Instructor Macleana Samuels.
Business Instructor Jay Elarcosa praised the team’s accomplishments and commitment to excellence. “Our students showcased their skills at the FBLA conference,” Elarcosa said. “Cerritos College excelled in nearly every event, winning first place in Customer Service. It’s clear these students are on the path to becoming future business leaders.”
The students’ success highlights Cerritos College’s continued commitment to preparing graduates for leadership roles in business while demonstrating that dedication, perseverance, and opportunity can open doors to extraordinary achievements.
