One of the toughest lessons to learn in university is that relying on the knowledge we gain from lectures is no longer enough for the rapidly evolving economy we live in. For this reason, many of us join student organizations, participate in case competitions, or apply for Co-Operative Education and internships, in order to convert our knowledge into skills, and gain valuable experience that can help us secure a career upon graduation. This was one of the reasons why I had applied to be part of the CaseIT Organizing Committee. The experience I gained from my role in the organizing committee was truly invaluable, ranging from interpersonal skills to simply brewing coffee. However, what was most unexpected during this journey was the emotional attachment I developed, to the team that I now refer to as my CaseIT family.
Every year, many universities come to Vancouver to compete at CaseIT, the MIS Case Competition that was established by Simon Fraser University twelve years ago. First introduced as an exclusive case competition for SFU students, CaseIT has acquired increasing success every year since inception, and has grown globally to host teams from universities from Australia, Europe, Asia, South Africa, North America, and more. What makes CaseIT particularly special is the Discover Vancouver event. Teams spend one afternoon with their Team Host, exploring Vancouver’s vast cultures, landmarks and cuisines. In addition, CaseIT’s networking events such as the Corporate Evening and Welcome Dinner is one of a kind, allowing some of the most prestigious and innovative university students to network with industry professionals and business leaders. At CaseIT, we are essentially promoting education to post-secondary students from around the world by exercising intellect and allowing them to apply and cultivate their skills and knowledge outside of the classroom environment. Through these experiences, students have an opportunity to grow and strive towards becoming a leader of tomorrow.
As the reputation and popularity of case competitions continue to grow, so does the talent and intellect of the participants. This year, InTech, a 24-hour technology case competition was instituted as a sister competition to CaseIT that is held concurrently with CaseIT’s international competition. Since SFU does not compete in CaseIT’s international competition, InTech has been established as an exclusive case competition for SFU students, providing first through fourth years with the opportunity to gain valuable case analysis and presentation skills. Prior to the case competition, InTech participants receive case training from some of the most experienced CaseIT alumni, as many of them have achieved notable successes from various case competitions. As this was InTech’s first year since inception, the case competition received generous feedback from both competitors, as well as judges that were composed of business professionals from several multinational organizations. InTech’s goal is to encourage SFU students to be driven, through involvement with case competitions and other opportunities in order to capitalize on the vast amount of resources that are available to our students.
As this was my first year being involved with CaseIT, the experience I have gained is truly immense. My role as a Team Host has allowed me to foster my interpersonal skills through communicating with sponsors in seeking for in-kind sponsorship, and other business professionals, which has also provided me with an opportunity to expand my professional network. However, the most memorable moment for me was being able to meet so many new friends from all over the world. I had the honour to be host to The National University of Singapore and The University of Minnesota. The friendships that each participant, and organizing committee member made during CaseIT was truly remarkable, as we all became one huge family. Each friend represents a world in us, and the opportunity to make new friends is one of the greatest gifts that CaseIT has given me.
Apply for this year’s CaseIT Organizing committee here by April 19, 2015.
Cyrus Wong is currently in his second year of study at the Beedie School of Business. He intends to major in Management Information Systems and Human Resources. This was Cyrus’ first year being involved with CaseIT, and his role as a Team Host revolved around acquiring in-kind sponsorship for the event. Cyrus also has previous experience being involved with BASS as a FROSH leader. Through his involvements, Cyrus hopes to become a well-rounded leader in the future. One of his goals is to live out the “Be More” campaign and to maximize his time at the Beedie School of Business.