The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, Competitive Scholars: An Analysis of Division II Business Majors and their Sports by Michael Monahan and Amit Shah.
In the landscape of higher education, the choice of major is a pivotal decision for students, often seen as a direct pathway to future career success. A recent academic paper, set to be presented at the upcoming SAM International Business Conference, takes a deep dive into this topic, with a particular focus on the popularity and implications of choosing Business as a major. This research comes at a time when the National Center for Education Statistics reports that Business is the leading major, encompassing 19% of total enrollments across institutions, and boasting a median income of $65,000 for graduates. The study seeks to explore the multifaceted nature of Business education and its competitive essence, both in the academic arena and beyond.
The paper offers a comprehensive look at the Business Major, an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of specialties such as Accounting, Marketing, Finance, Economics, Human Resources, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and Management. It underscores the importance of a well-rounded “Business Core” curriculum that lays the groundwork for students before they delve into their specialized areas of concentration. This foundational knowledge is crucial for students to thrive in the diverse sectors of modern society.
Moreover, the research delves into the competitive dynamics that underpin the realm of business studies. Drawing parallels with competition in sports, acting, sales, and hospitality, the paper argues that the drive to gain a competitive advantage is a universal phenomenon that spurs individuals and teams to excel. It raises intriguing questions about the necessity of adopting a war-like mentality towards business success, referencing Michael Crichton’s novel “Rising Sun” to illustrate the intensity of competition in the global business landscape.
A significant portion of the study is dedicated to examining the academic and athletic life of students at a comprehensive mid-Atlantic Division II institution. By focusing on NCAA Division II athletes, the research aims to uncover the most popular majors among student athletes, the representation of Business majors in sports teams, gender disparities in major selection, and how these trends mirror the broader student body. Additionally, it evaluates the academic performance of business majors in comparison to their peers, providing valuable insights into the intersection of sports participation and academic pursuits.
The findings from this study are poised to offer meaningful implications for educational practice, particularly in enhancing the support for student athletes in Business programs. As the paper is presented at the SAM International Business Conference, it is expected to spark discussions among educators, researchers, and practitioners about the role of higher education in preparing students for the competitive world of business, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by student athletes in balancing their academic and athletic commitments. This research not only contributes to the academic discourse on education and career readiness but also offers practical recommendations for institutions seeking to optimize the educational experiences of their students.
Join us online or in person at SAMIBC 2024 and see this great presentation and many more March 19 – March 23, 2024. For registration information visit www.samnational.org/conference.