UWG Students Win $600 Prize at the Internal Graduate Case Study Competition Share this page
The University of West Georgia’s Richards College of Business recently hosted its Internal Graduate Case Study Competition, where two teams of graduate students tackled a real-world challenge involving the app LookOut. LookOut, a service that connects sighted volunteers with visually impaired users, offers real-time assistance with daily tasks. The company was overstaffed, having more volunteers than clients needing assistance, which caused operational and sustainability challenges.
Two teams were tasked with developing a revitalization plan, analyzing business models, identifying key obstacles, and presenting innovative strategies to ensure long-term success. Team Gonzalo Roman, Toluwalase Shitu, Zainab Olaowo, and Reese Scott ultimately took home first place and the $600 prize, while the team of Kendal Sparks, Habeebat Erubu, Aleksandra Dolgikh, and Malakai Taft earned second place and a $400 prize. Judges noted the high quality of both presentations, emphasizing how close the competition truly was.
“The judges were highly complimentary of them,” said Lecturer Lantz Ferrell, advisor and mentor to both teams. “They gave them high marks across the board.”
Ferrell emphasized how prepared the teams were, saying her favorite part was watching them present.
“They really gelled together as a team, and it was very exciting to see the fruit of their labor,” she added.
The students gained valuable experience in resume building, professional development, public speaking, networking and teamwork, while using critical thinking to tackle key topics such as how to market the app, fund their strategy and long-term sustainability.
“It really pushed me to become a researcher,” said Shitu. “We knew nothing about the company, and we had to use our findings to create solutions.”
Competitions like this give students hands-on experience solving complex business problems in a time-sensitive setting, while highlighting the level of talent within the management program at UWG.
“When these students go out and they’re interviewing, they’ll be able to say they can do a variety of things,” said Ferrell.
The competition showcased the students’ ability to collaborate, think critically and deliver professional-level solutions under pressure, ultimately preparing them for their future careers. The graduates encourage students to pursue their dreams, offering advice to those who want to pursue a degree in management.
“Never be afraid to ask questions and start conversations, because you never know what might come out of it,” said Sparks. “Take advantage of every opportunity, whether you think it’ll benefit you or not, because in the long run, it’ll ultimately help you grow as a person.”
For more information on the Richards College of Business, visit its website.