Check out the video above to learn more about the benefits of participating in competitions and experiential applied learning.
This year, Pearson sponsored the 2012 Annual American Marketing Association (AMA) International Collegiate Conference and Case Competition. This is the 34th year of the AMA Collegiate Conference, which saw over 1,400 students compete in competitions that tested their marketing, sales, and business skills in a variety of ways. During the case competition, AMA collegiate chapters were presented with possible real-world marketing problems. Pearson executives judged and critiqued their presentations.
Students analyzed the problem, researched solutions, and created a cohesive Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) plan that addressed hypothetical marketing problems. Forty-eight reports were submitted from collegiate chapters around North America and the top 10 were selected to present their IMC plan to Pearson judges at the conference. The 25 minute presentations consisted of in-depth overview of the of their situational analysis, market research, target markets, strategic positioning, and execution of their marketing tactics followed by questions from the Pearson judge panel.
The case competition experience challenged students to use their strategic thinking skills, apply their skills to a hypothetical situation, and give them insight into the world of marketing.
The top ten finalists presented as if they represented top agencies and were pitching to a client. After a full day of presentations, judges found it was difficult to rank the top chapters because of the thoroughness of analysis and professionalism exhibited from all groups. The team from the British Columbia Institute of Technology took first place for their well developed plan and pristine presentation skills. Following in second place was University of Pennsylvania, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, and University of Wisconsin – Whitewater. In third place were Aurora University, Hofstra University, Portland State University, Southern Connecticut State University, Texas State University – San Marcos, and the University of Arizona.
Congratulations to all Case Competition top finalists, competitors, and conference attendees!
Heald College in Honolulu has created a unique environment that focuses on professional success and individual growth. Heald is one of the few colleges that has implemented and diligently enforces the wearing of professional attire. The faculty consistently point out that the dress code helps students become comfortable in professional attire while helping them feel more confident and prepared for the future. This also helps students develop an impressive and vast professional wardrobe for their future careers by the end of student’s degree program. Their programs are very structured, deliberate, and hands on for specific career fields to maximize the students learning focus. I recently enrolled for my first semester in Electronics Technology.
The Electronics program also incorporates information technology course work to develop a well rounded and knowledgeable professional. One main thing that stood out to me while researching different colleges is what Heald does to prepare students for actual careers. Every student in my program has an idea of a specific job to apply for upon graduation and everyone’s is different. I plan on working in the oil industry. Heald’s Electronics program is designed to teach fundamentals of electronics and get as much practical hands on experience so that students can apply their knowledge to any electronics profession. This is a critical aspect in electronics and technology because these areas are consistently and rapidly advancing. Having a solid knowledge of fundamental electronic and information technology helps students realistically prepare for their future careers. Additionally, the instructors are all very knowledgeable and successful professionals in their chosen career fields.
All of my instructors have advanced degrees as well as experience in a variety of industries to include the military, government, and Fortune 500 companies. The combination of education and experience is reflected in their attitudes and teaching methods. The instructors also demonstrate genuine concern for individual student learning, attitudes, and overall success. One of my instructors recently earned her Doctorates in Education and she projects her wealth of knowledge and ideas through the energy, professionalism, and methodology that she brings to the class each day. She truly motivates her students and challenges them to better themselves as students, professionals, as well as individuals. My Electronics instructor has a long and prestigious background in the electronics industry and openly shares his knowledge and experiences to help each student get the most out of the program. His clear and concise communication skills, patience, and knowledge help each student and learning style understand the information and its relation to the bigger picture very effectively.
Because of Heald’s unique programs, structure, and faculty, the college holds enormous value for me now and for my future career. I will be prepared for both professional and technical aspects of the job and have an advantage over those who did not prepare in such a successful environment like I have at Heald College.
This scholarship is sponsored by CenturyLinkQuote.com.