Touring the world with an incredible team – what could be better?
It’s no secret that varsity sports are fun in part of the competition, community, and results. Within the business world, and especially Ivey, the equivalent of a varsity sports team would be the Ivey Case Competition Club (ICCC). Hosting a variety of competition teams composed of AEO2 and HBA students, the club travels globally to compete (and commonly place!) in various case competitions.
Samantha Lin and Robert Di Marco (both of whom are presently in HBA2 from BMOS) are the current co-presidents, who like to highlight the community focus and diverse nature of the club. The ICCC is comprised of peers from various communities and backgrounds, and having the opportunity to work with such a distinct group of individuals under tense situations is the perfect way to get to know one another and create tight bonds. When asked about their favourite memories within the club, they both mentioned the CaseIT competition hosted by Simon Fraser University which they attended last year. They state how the deepest bonds are made when the team collaborates intensely on a slide deck and then gets to present their findings to executives from the company in the case. It was especially rewarding to win their category and represent Ivey globally.
Now is the perfect time to get involved with the Ivey Case Competition Club. Since the previous 3 years have been afflicted with COVID-19, the ability to attend in-person competitions this year has been golden for both Robert and Samantha. With 2nd year teams going to Queens, 3rd year teams travelling across Canada, and 4th year teams flying all the way to Europe, the ability to physically attend and compete in these case competitions is finally back. Travelling globally broadens your perspectives, and who would pass up the chance to work and have fun with a tight knit team?
You must be wondering: how can AEO students get involved? Well, ICCC starts recruiting from AEO2 in the Fall each year, meaning that second year students can snatch a spot on the team! Samantha and Robert highlight that it’s not the volume of case competitions that you’ve done that will get you a spot, but the drive and passion that you have. Another asset is a strong competitive drive; just like varsity sport teams, case competition teams thrive off their desire to win and do the best they possibly can. If you’re someone who’s got that strong desire to compete and improve within a case competition environment, look no further than the ICCC. Keep an eye out for applications to join the club on their socials: LinkedIn and Instagram.
Lifelong memories will be made travelling and competing with the ICCC, and nothing feels better than a good pitch after an arduous preparation period. Don't miss the opportunity to apply once applications open in the Fall!
Robert (rdimarco.hba2023@ivey.ca) and Samantha (slin.hba2023@ivey.ca) would be happy to answer any outstanding questions!