When MARS Apprentice was first introduced, back the the day...2004? i think. it's been too long to remember, but I definitely knew I wanted to be a part of it. Being sort of a reality TV junkie (i'm not gonna lie), I loved the show, and thought it would be a great opportunity to put my skills to the test and get some exposure to the companies participating. I was one of 10 contestants, and the only 4th year student to participate. I can honestly say that it was really difficult to manage during my final undergrad year, but it was all worth it in the end!
Gravity Corporation was our team name, and we worked on challenges for 4 companies: JK Marketing, Hamilton Ti-Cats, Frito Lay and Maple Leaf Foods. I still remember the "tiger tail drop" presentation in the lobby of Degroote, it was so much fun!
What did I get out of MARS Apprentice? I learned how to effectively work with others (sometimes day in a day out), learned how to become a better leader (project manager!) and strengthened my time-management and communication skills. I have also become a better presenter and can make a mean Powerpoint presentation! But the best part for me, was that it made me realized how much I enjoyed Marketing. I truely developed a passion for it and knew that it was something I wanted to pursue in my career.
On that note, after graudation, I worked for a non-profit marketing company promoting Arts and Culture events. After that, I moved on to work for Enterprise-Rent-A-Car and became a Branch Manager in a speedy 14 months! Currently I'm still working part time for Enterprise, but am starting my MBA studies full-time at the Schulich School of Business in September. I'm super excited to go back to school and can't wait for what the future holds for me...
Good luck to all of you! Do what you love and love what you do! :D
Jackie Lim
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1 comment:
Jackie, are you perhaps forgetting the other 4th year student who was involved that year?
And in all honesty, I'm glad I did it in my 4th and not my 2nd year! I felt a little bad for the guys who had to manage cost accounting at the same time. Talk about turning your head in multiple directions.
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