Participating in the PennSEM Business Case Competition was an amazing experience that challenged me outside my comfort zone, enabling me to gain valuable skills while operating in a competitive and dynamic environment. This experience not only broadened my business knowledge but also improved my collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills. Looking back at my experience, I can see how it aligns with the CAS learning outcomes: LO1, LO2, LO4, LO5, LO6, and LO7.
LO1: Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
Right from the time I got involved in the competition, I was made to realize my strengths as well as my weaknesses. I had a good foundation in research and thinking, but I needed to enhance my capacity to communicate ideas concisely and effectively under pressure. Through team discussions and constructive feedback, I was able to enhance my decision-making and public speaking skills a great deal.
LO2: Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process
The competition was not without challenge. The case that we were assigned to tackle involved in-depth analysis and planning within a set time limit. There were moments when our group had conflicting opinions and the threat of deadlines looming over us. Rather than getting discouraged, however, we worked through it, adjusting our plans and learning from our errors. This experience also taught me how resilience and adaptability are necessary in overcoming challenges.
LO4: Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences
Preparation for the competition required commitment and persistence. Our team worked tirelessly gathering market data, coming up with creative solutions, and perfecting our final presentation. There were times of fatigue and skepticism, but our shared commitment to presenting a solid proposal kept us going. The perseverance we showed during the competition reaffirmed my capacity to remain committed to long-term objectives in the face of adversity.
LO5: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively
Perhaps the best part of this competition was learning to work as part of a diverse team. Every team member had different approaches and skill sets, and we needed to find out how to use each other’s strengths efficiently. This activity improved my listening, communication, and compromise skills, all important for teamwork. I have greater respect now for the potential of collaboration in producing success.
LO6: Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance
Our case study posed substantial global and ethical challenges. We had to balance corporate social responsibility and sustainability whilemaking decisions on our recommendations’ effect on variousstakeholders. This experience was reflective of my comprehension of the role of ethics in business decision-making as well as of ethical decision-making processes themselves.
LO7: Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions
During the competition, we also faced ethical issues that challenged us to critically evaluate fairness, integrity, and transparency. We wererequired to strike a balance between profitability and making ethical choices to ensure that our solutions were viable and ethical. This experience was a reminder of the significance of ethical factors in business and encouraged me to strengthen my moral compass in the workplace.
Overall, the PennSEM Business Case Competition was an eye-opening experience that pushed me in ways I had never anticipated. It sharpened my abilities, opened my eyes, and further fostered my loveof collaboration and moral decision-making. Above all, it taught me the importance of perseverance, flexibility, and ongoing learning. This experience has been directly applicable to my personal and professional development, and I look forward to applying these lessons to challenges ahead.