In my 3 years as a CKI member, I attended 3 DCONs. When I first started attending Stockton Circle K meetings, I just wanted to do some community service. I did not expect to be going to conventions and getting so involved. Then, fortunately for me, Melinda Graff (who is currently working her butt off to plan this years DCON) convinced me to come with her to our first DCON. Let me tell you, I did not expect to have as much fun as I did. First of all, it was Disney themed, so how great is that!? Not only was I able to meet Circle Kers from schools around the state, but I also grew closer to the amazing group of Stockton Circle Kers who attended. I created lasting friendships while learning about how the organization is run at a higher level. I admired the members who ran for district board positions and could never imagine myself speaking in front of such a large group. I went to workshops where I learned how to juggle and about our service initiatives. I made some of my favorite memories at the dance and the diner afterword. I saw my second and third DCONs in different perspectives. Stockton was the host club for DCON 2013 so I had my first experiences helping to plan our superhero themed convention. I had so much fun there that I decided to join the district board the subsequent year. DCON 2014, the 50th ever and my last DCON, was completely different from my first. I conquered one of my greatest fears and spoke in front of a large crowd of friends, fellow CKI members, Kiwanians, and alumni. It was all very exciting but sad at the same time because I knew I would no longer be able to attend DCON as a member of CKI. To any members on the fence about attending this year, if you take anything away from this, please please please attend DCON. You will not regret it!
-Olivia Pereira