Excel At Your Future

Credit: Michigan State University

Most electives teach you about history, art, or science. But how many teach you skills you’ll actually use in college or your first job?

That’s where Business Software Applications (BSA) comes in. In this class, students learn computer and technology skills that go far beyond the classroom. From mastering Microsoft programs like Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, to building professional resumes and learning how to write formal emails, BSA prepares students for school, college, and the workforce. At Vestavia, students can even earn the Microsoft Office Specialist Certificate—a credential recognized by many companies—that can help them step straight into the workplace after graduation.

Sophomores Presley Stephens and Sophia Chen, who both chose BSA as their elective, say they signed up to “learn marketing.” For them, the class has been about more than just skills—it’s also about community. “It’s an amazing experience to meet people who have the same interests,” they said. They praised their teacher, Mr. Davenport, now in his tenth year of teaching at Vestavia, for showing them “useful tools that are often used in the workfield, like formatting posters and staying safe on social media.” According to them, the class environment is “chill, exploring, and collaborative,” giving students space to discover and build on their interests.

Mr. Davenport agrees that BSA is about preparing students for the future. The course guides them through researching careers, building résumés, and becoming college-ready. One of his favorite projects is the budget project, where students calculate a monthly budget based on salary, bills, and spending. “It’s something they’ll need in the real world,” he explained, “and it helps them practice financial responsibility before they’re on their own.”

The impact of BSA lasts far beyond high school. Mr. Davenport often receives emails from former students—and even parents—sharing how the course helped with college applications, résumés, and everyday life. Many parents even say they wish they’d had the opportunity to take a class like this when they were younger. Current students echo that sentiment, recommending the class because it “builds a good foundation that you can build on over the years and will be very helpful if you want to work in companies.”

So if you’re still deciding what electives to take next year, consider BSA. It might just be the class that prepares you best for life, long after high school ends.