Breaking the Streak: Excelling in Business Case Competition

Abstract

Seeking real-world experience, CHAN King Ming Scott, CHOW Kwan Ho Paco, NAYEM Faridul Islam, and TROFEO Julio Raymundo Sanchez entered the world’s largest undergraduate case competition. Guided by the Advanced Competition Club, the team transitioned from classroom learners to business strategists. They faced two intense stages: a 24-hour analysis of HeyTea and a rapid 4-hour challenge for Maxim’s Cakes. Without digital tools, they relied on Paco’s comparative research, Julio’s analytical frameworks, and Scott’s poise during daunting Q&A sessions. The 2nd Runner-Up finish marked a milestone for PolyU, ending a five-year absence from the finals. This experience taught them the "big-picture" perspective, the importance of structure, and effective delegation. The team walked away not just with a trophy, but with the confidence to navigate the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the global business world.