Cerritos College business students win big at FBLA National Leadership Conference

NORWALK — Students from the Cerritos College chapter of Future Business Leaders of America achieved major success at the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Las Vegas, securing multiple top-10 finishes, including a national championship in customer service.

The conference was held June 6-8 and brought together more than 1,300 attendees from nearly 200 colleges and universities across 29 U.S. states and territories. Students competed in 42 business events for nearly $60,000 in scholarships and cash prizes.

Cerritos College students received national recognition in several categories:

Almarosa Alvarado placed first in customer service and fifth in job interview. Amanda Monroy placed fourth in job interview, while Zaira Mora placed sixth in job interview and seventh in customer service. Nathan Pheng, Hilda Rubianes and Isabella Santacruz placed ninth in entrepreneurship.

For Alvarado, a re-entry student, winning a national title was about more than a trophy. It was a life-changing milestone.

“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 earn her bachelor’s degree in accounting. Her career goals include working at a Big Four accounting firm and giving back to her community.

In addition to the competitions, students participated in 60 educational workshops and networked with representatives from more than 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, who also accompanied the team, said he was proud of the students’ dedication.

“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.”