The programming committee for the 79th Annual SAM International Business Conference is pleased to announce the acceptance of the presentation, To Remain Competitive, Undergraduate Business Programs Must Involve their Students in More Business Case Competitions by Kelvyn Moore and James Calvin.
The upcoming SAM International Business Conference is set to feature an intriguing paper that delves into the realm of undergraduate business education. Titled “Enhancing Undergraduate Success through Business Case Competitions,” this paper shines a light on the pivotal role that case competitions play in preparing students for the challenges of the modern corporate landscape.
At its core, the paper emphasizes the need for increased involvement in business case competitions among undergraduate students. It argues that these competitions offer invaluable opportunities for real-world application, encouraging the exploration of diverse ideas and contributions from a varied group of participants. By immersing students in scenarios that mirror the complexities of actual business environments, case competitions serve as an effective training ground for developing essential skills and competencies.
The authors of the paper surveyed several undergraduate business programs to gauge the extent of exposure their students had to case competitions, both internal and external. Their findings underscored the importance of integrating such competitions into the curriculum to enhance student readiness for corporate roles. The paper suggests that participation in case competitions can help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world practice, addressing some of the shortcomings identified by hiring managers.
In today’s fiercely competitive job market, organizations are increasingly seeking candidates who possess a comprehensive understanding of business dynamics and are equipped to navigate the complexities of various industries. The COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated the demand for employees with strong communication skills and the ability to tackle complex business challenges. To meet these evolving needs, students must acquire and hone the skills that extend beyond the confines of traditional classroom learning.
The paper underscores the importance of equipping undergraduate students with the soft and hard skills that are in high demand among employers. Through participation in business case competitions, students have the opportunity to cultivate these skills in a hands-on, experiential learning environment. By treating case competitions as a standard component of the curriculum, akin to graduate business programs, institutions can better prepare their students for success in the corporate world.
As the SAM International Business Conference approaches, anticipation is building for the presentation of this insightful paper. Attendees can look forward to gaining valuable insights into the transformative potential of business case competitions in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow’s business landscape.
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.