Ohio University - College of Business - Recent News

Business student stands out at international conference

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nov. 13th, 2009

By: Robbie Mooney, Marketing and Communications Intern

Sophomore and Honors Tutorial College (HTC) business student, Sarah Pels, set new standards for business students as she presented her co-authored paper titled "Wordless Quick Start Guides: Teaching Software Skills Using Information Graphics" at the International Association of Computer Information Systems (IACIS) conference in October. The IACIS consists of scholars from a range of the cultural sciences who are dedicated to doing research on communication across cultures. The group, made up of participants from over 32 countries, meets annually at different locations around the world to discuss common research interests. The results of their investigations are published in the journal of the organization, Intercultural Communication Studies (ICS).

The process for submitting her paper began when Sarah was a freshman. “Last year, I joined the design team who was currently working on the graphic creation of the diagrams. It was during the construction of the diagrams themselves that I became really interested in their actual effectiveness in the classroom. Once I got invested in building the diagrams, it was a natural and exciting transition to exploring their tangible benefits in the classroom,” said Pels.

Sara’s success may be credited to the assistance of Dr. Raymond Frost, Professor of Management Information Systems (MIS) in the College of Business. “Raymond Frost and I worked together throughout the whole process. He led our research, and I worked very closely with him in all stages of the process. We would have great discussions about our opinions and perspectives of the topic and how it applied to our classroom. It was an incredible learning experience,” said Pels.

The topic of the paper focused on the instructional design of MIS201 and, specifically, the use of wordless diagrams to teach techniques in Photoshop Elements, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Sarah’s hard work and research with her paper allowed her to do something most people her age are unable to do; “It is very unusual for underclassmen to present in front of faculty at a national conference,” said Frost. However, Sarah did not let the pressures of a national conference bother her. “My experience presenting the paper was amazing. It should have been a very intimidating crowd, especially as I was the only undergraduate student at the conference, but the presentation went very smoothly and I was not terribly nervous. We had several people approach us afterward to ask questions and inquire about receiving a copy of our text books and in-depth instructional methodology. It was a really great experience.” said Pels.

Sarah’s strong collaboration with MIS professor Raymond Frost shows the benefits of working side-by-side with an experienced OU faculty member. Pels added, “I would say that the whole process has given me an even deeper respect for the research in which university faculty are involved and has inspired me to continue research of my own.” Her great motivation and commitment prove that anyone can achieve international recognition despite their education level.

The Ralph and Luci Schey Sales Centre honors their Professional Sales Advisory Board

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

November 9, 2009

By: Carly Bentz, Marketing and Communications Intern

On
Thursday, November 5, The Ralph and Luci Schey Sales Centre held a reception to
honor the Professional Sales Advisory Board (PSAB) for their contributions to
the organization. The following morning, The PSAB Meeting was facilitated by Professor
Ken Hartung. During this meeting, student leaders of The Sales Centre’s
Candidate Advisory Council presented their accomplishments so far this year,
and what is to come.

The
PSAB is made up of representatives from The Sales Centre’s corporate partners
and other professionals that have practiced or currently practice sales. These
professionals are responsible for helping to guide the organization.

During
Friday’s presentation, topics of discussion included: the success of this year's marketing efforts, improved diversity, professional development events,
and corporate outreach. The presenters also reported on The Sales Centre’s outstanding
Fall Recruitment in which they inducted 51 new candidates. The Sales Centre was
extremely successful in picking candidates that could follow this year's motto,
“Be The Difference.” This year, 92 students applied for the 51 spaces.

Also
during the meeting, The Sales Centre students were able to network with
individuals that have made their mark in the sales world. These individuals
dedicated to the success of the Sales Centre are reaping the benefits, as
expressed in this year's Marketing Campaign, "Change Your Learning, Unlock
Your Future". For more information about The Ralph and Luci Schey Sales
Centre and the students that continue to "Be The Difference", please
visit their website, www.TheSalesCentre.com. The Sales Centre is looking forward
to another successful Winter Recruitment in January 2010!

The College of Business Welcomes New Student Organization: The Ohio University Consulting Group

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nov. 4th, 2009

By: Robbie Mooney, Marketing and Communications Interm

This year, Ohio University and the College of Business welcome a new student organization, the Ohio University Consulting Group (OUCG). This innovative program promises to offer its members real life consulting experience by working with clients in a variety of companies and organizations.

The group began last year as an idea by senior Marketing and MIS major, Kyle Mosher, who wanted more consulting experience outside of the cluster program and current Global Consulting Program (GCP) that the College of Business now offers.

“Like many other CoB students, I have had a lot of experience in consulting through the cluster, GCP (in Brazil), reverse GCP (Brazilian students attend Ohio University for two weeks), and various Marketing and MIS courses. I enjoyed these projects so much that I wanted to join an organization that did these projects year-round. Last winter I did some research and realized that there was no such group in existence. This was when I decided to take the initiative to start the group myself,” said Mosher. “I started the process by gathering a Vice President, senior Finance and MIS major Anthony Valentine, and a faculty advisor, Dr. John Kiger, a Marketing professor that I had in the cluster whom I really respected as a teacher and as a mentor. Anthony, John, and I have been brainstorming and developing the group since last winter 2008 and now it is an official, working organization with active and involved members.”

The OUCG is made up of 3 committees; Finance/Accounting, Marketing, and MIS/IT, with members from a wide range of majors involved in the organization. The group accepts only about 20 members a year, due to the fact that consulting projects would be difficult to implement with more than 20 participants at a time. There is a selection process to join OUCG, which consists of submitting a resumé and cover letter, followed by a short interview process.

For those hoping to join OUCG for the 2010-2011 school year, the OUCG will be accepting resumés at the end of winter quarter.

The group’s first consulting client was actually themselves. “We have been building a website, designing a logo (which was done by graphic design member, Erin Dow), developing a slogan and mission statement, purchasing polos with our logo embroidered on them for each member to wear during meetings and other activities, planning fundraising events, promoting the group by going to the CoB Student Organization Fair, speaking to the cluster classes, and sending out CoB emails,” said Mosher.

The group is looking forward to their first real project with Uloop.com, a popular college campus site that offers students the opportunity to buy, sell, promote, and trade a variety of objects and services with classmates. “I spoke with the CEO of the company and he was very enthused about working with us and getting feedback from the students on all facets of the company,” said Mosher. “It is up to the members of the group to choose projects that we feel would be beneficial for us, as well as for the particular company we are involved with. This is a great opportunity for students to gain real-life experience in consulting. CoB majors get a taste of real-life clients in the cluster and possibly with GCP, but now the Ohio University Consulting Group can give students the opportunity to build their resumé, gain experience, and in the future we plan on getting business sponsors for potential career/internship opportunities.”

For more information on the OUCG, please contact Kyle Mosher, President, at km714306@ohio.edu

Connect Externship Program presents opportunities for CoB students

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oct. 29, 2009

By: Carly Bentz, Marketing and Communications Intern

Connect, a College of Business student organization, is planning its annual Externship program for winter intersession. The Externship program is a no cost three-day shadowing and engagement experience for Ohio University CoB students. Connecting students with alumni is the main goal of Connect, and with the Externship program, that is exactly what the organization is doing. The Externship’s purpose is to give students real-life experiences through observing and engaging alumni in the workplace. “The Externship is an opportunity for students to develop professional relationships and to see a glimpse of the real world,” said Caleb Pope, Vice President of Connect.

The Externship program was started in the early years of Connect, but was terminated for financial reasons. Last year the program was restarted, and was a great success. It was so successful that it was mentioned in BusinessWeek Online. This year, Connect looks to double alumni participation, and has set forth to make the experience more than just shadowing by providing opportunities for professional development. Also, the expectations of students and alumni have been bolstered to improve the quality of the Externship experience.

Connect lays out specific requirements that students and alumni participants must meet in order for the program to be successful. Student requirements include: bear costs of the externship, must be highly-qualified and motivated, undergo an application and interview process, come prepared to engage alumni, come prepared with questions, prepare heavily through company and competitor research, and write a reflection paper.

Alumni participants must also meet certain requirements that include: give an overview of and show day-to-day operations, allow time for student questions, highlight the career journey that has led to their current position, discuss difficulties and how they are overcome, and provide a mock interview from the HR department to help student hone interviewing skills and edit resumes.

Members of Connect are very excited for this year’s program and encourage freshmen, sophomores, and juniors to come to the information sessions on November 4 from 7-8 pm and November 5 from 6-7 pm in Copeland Hall 112/114. “Come learn more about this unique program and position yourself for the best job/internship you can,” said Matt Galli, President of Connect.

College of Business sponsoring blood drive this week

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oct 26th, 2009

By Robbie Mooney, Marketing and Communications Intern

This Thursday, October 29th, the College of Business will be hosting a blood drive organized by the American Red Cross. The blood drive will run from 9am until 3pm on Thursday, and will be located in the Baker Center in rooms 240 and 242.

Blood is needed for emergencies and for people who have cancer, blood disorders, sickle cell, anemia and other illnesses. Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States needs some type of blood transfusion, yet only 5% of people donate. Your donation can make the difference between life and death for nearly 5 million people who receive blood transfusions every year. Please come and support this noble cause and take a few minutes out of you day to save a life.

To make an appointment to give blood during this blood drive, please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE. For more information about how to sign up to donate, contact John Ryan at John.R.Ryan.3@ohio.edu.

College of Business welcomes freshmen to attend student organization fair

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

October 22, 2009
By: Carly Bentz, Marketing and Communications Intern

On Sunday, October 25, the College of Business will host a student organization fair for freshmen to attend. The fair will take place in 240 Baker Center, and will last from 7-8:30 pm.

All College of Business student organizations will be there, and it will be an easy way for freshmen to learn more about the organizations the College of Business has to offer its students. A list of the organizations that will be in attendance can be found here.

The College of Business encourages all freshmen to attend the event, because becoming involved in student organizations can be very beneficial to your experience at Ohio University and to your future endeavors.

"The event will assist freshmen in deciding which CoB organizations are most consistent with their own academic and career goals," said Mike Bila, the Assistant Dean for Student Services. The fair will also benefit the College of Business’ student organizations by helping them to attract new members.

Homecoming weekend brings OU alumni back to their Alma Mater

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oct. 19th, 2009

By Carly Bentz and Robbie Mooney, Marketing and Communication Interns

This year’s homecoming at Ohio University provided a week’s worth of memories for students, faculty and OU alumni visiting Athens for the annual celebration. The celebration, titled a “Travel Through Time”, offered plenty of entertaining activities including historical hayride tours through The Ridges, a play by Brendan Behan titled The Hostage, sporting events such as field hockey, volleyball, swimming and diving, the “Yell Like Hell” pep rally, the Bobcat BBQ, a Fall Jazz concert, and the Homecoming Parade. The highlight of the weekend, the Ohio vs. Miami football game on Saturday, raised fan’s spirits with a 28-7 victory for the Bobcats over the Red Hawks.

With the help of student organization, Connect, the College of Business hosted its own tailgate for visiting alumni and faculty. The event, located in Tailgreat Park, had two tents of tables where alumni and faculty gathered to enjoy food and drinks provided by the College of Business.

Alumni of the College of Business that attended the tailgate event said they enjoyed coming back to Athens during homecoming weekend for many reasons. Recent ’09 graduates, Alex Chernushin, a finance and business economics major, and Eric Richards, a business economics major, said that returning to see old friends from Ohio University is one thing they especially looked forward to coming for this year’s homecoming. Less recent College of Business alumni Ron Chapman, a ‘54 accounting major, enjoyed coming to OU this weekend to see his son that currently lives in Athens. Chapman was not the only one who liked coming back to Athens because of family and close friends. “Coming to OU is like coming back home,” said Holly Seckinger, an ’02 marketing major.

The College of Business tailgate proved to be a very memorable event for alumni and faculty alike. Richards said that he enjoyed the tailgate because he liked seeing recent CoB alumni hanging out with past alumni. The amazing turnout of the tailgate may have been the most memorable part of all. “This tailgate is way better than I expected,” said Chernushin, “I was able to see all my old friends and professors.” Seckinger said she also valued seeing past professors. “I enjoyed seeing [Chris] Moberg, he’s an awesome person to keep in touch with.” With such a successful turnout of faculty and alumni at the tailgate this year, this CoB event may become the most popular homecoming tradition yet.

“Travel Through Time” as Homecoming Week Approaches

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oct. 13th, 2009

By: Robbie Mooney, Marketing and Communications Intern

As the fall weather settles in, the 2009 Homecoming week has begun. The celebration this year, titled a “Travel Through Time”, will prove to be a week to remember. From of exciting sports matchups to shows, plays, and even hayrides, this year’s Homecoming offers plenty of entertaining activities for on campus students and staff as well as visiting Ohio University alumni. The festivities kick off this week with "Paint the Town Green" on Monday, Oct. 12, and end with the women's soccer and field hockey games on Sunday, Oct. 18.

Homecoming this year will feature both traditional and non-traditional activities for Ohio University students, faculty, and alumni. Some things in particular to look forward to include historical hayride tours through The Ridges, a play by Brendan Behan titled The Hostage, sporting events such as field hockey, volleyball, swimming and diving, the “Yell Like Hell” pep rally, the Bobcat BBQ, a Fall Jazz concert, and the huge favorite, the Homecoming Parade.

The highlight of the weekend, the OHIO vs. Miami football game, will surely provide those in attendance with an exciting matchup between the two rival teams. Last year’s visit to Oxford left the Bobcats with a 41 – 26 win over the Red Hawks, and they hope to continue their dominance at home this weekend inside Peden Stadium. The game begins at 2:00 on Saturday, October 17^th, although fans will be gathering beforehand for some traditional tailgating. The College of Business will even be hosting its own tailgate for alumni only, located in Tailgreat Park, beginning at 12:00 pm on Saturday. Those wishing to attend the CoB alumni tailgate should click here to RSVP.

With so much to do this weekend, Athens’ “Travel Through Time” should prove to be a fun, exciting weekend for OU alumni, students, and faculty. For a full list of this year’s Homecoming activities please visit the Ohio University Alumni Association (OUAA) website.

Phi Gamma Nu’s Second Annual Business Olympics: Another Success!

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oct. 7, 2009
By: Carly Bentz, Marketing and Communications Intern

On Saturday, October 3, Phi Gamma Nu, a College of Business fraternity, hosted the Second Annual Business Olympics in Baker Center. The event was open to all College of Business organizations, and this year’s competitors were: Delta Sigma Pi, Connect, Alpha Kappa Psi, Student Fixed Income Group, Select Leaders, and the International Business Society.

The competition consisted of many events in different areas such as a marketing campaign, an ethical case study, business jeopardy, and a current events quiz. Company representatives from Cardinal Health, Miracles for Life, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Standard Register, and Total Quality Logistics judged and scored each event. "As a recruiter, I really enjoyed seeing students in their element, selling a product to the best of their ability," said Lindsay Mazza, a representative from Total Quality Logistics, who helped judge the marketing campaign.

Each team arrived at the event ready to play, but some of the teams were caught off guard by how challenging the events were. The competition was strong, and even ended with a tie for first place. After the tiebreaker, the Student Fixed Income team won the grand prize of $250. In second place were the Select Leaders, winning a prize of $150.

The successful event allowed students from different organizations throughout the College of Business to come together and interact through beneficial business events and games. "Business Olympics gave me the opportunity to learn from and interact with other students within the College of Business,” said Jake Meyers, a member of Phi Gamma Nu. Although this is only the second year for Business Olympics, Phi Gamma Nu plans to host the event for years to come. "Business Olympics was a great opportunity for team building and networking. The event was fantastic, and I'm sure that it will continue to grow. It's a must-attend event for any business organization," said Jordan Shirkman, a Select Leaders team member.

Make sure you don’t miss the Fall 2009 Career and Internship Fair!

Jennifer Hall - hallj3@ohio.edu — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oct. 2nd, 2009
By: Robbie Mooney, Marketing and Communications Intern

The upcoming fall Career and Internship Fair will be held on October 6 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The fair will be held in the Baker University Center Ballroom located on the fourth floor. All students are welcome to attend this event, and are highly encouraged to do so. Those choosing to attend the event should bring their OU student ID as well as a résumé with them.

The fall career fair is intended to help students that are looking for employment opportunities – through full-time and part-time positions, or through summer internships. Students who attend the fair can learn about the participating organizations, their recruiting methods, as well as the networking process with potential employers.

The fair will host over 70 employers from a variety of fields. Some organizations that will be attending the fair include: Abercrombie and Fitch, the American Cancer Society, AT&T, Bridgestone, Charles Schwab, Chase, Goodyear, the IRS, JCPenny, KeyBank, National City, the US Marines, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Progressive, Sherwin-Williams, Smucker’s, Target, Verizon Wireless, and Whirlpool. A full list of the participating organizations, their websites, and brief descriptions of each company can be found through Bobcat Career Link.

It is recommended that students come prepared to the Career and Internship fair in order to be successful while speaking to employers. Students should prepare by identifying and researching a few potential organizations that interest them. Also, those attending the fair should have their résumés prepared with multiple copies, as well as wear appropriate professional dress for the occasion. While at the fair, it is important for students to ask questions, take their time, and sell themselves the best they can to recruiters at the fair. Also, for a successful experience, students should make sure they send thank you cards to follow up with organizations that were significantly important to them, as well as evaluate their overall experience.

For more information on how to prepare for the Career Fair, students can schedule an appointment with career counselors or attend a presentation on Career Fair Etiquette. Seminars are also available regarding resume writing, interviewing, and job search strategies. A schedule of presentations and seminars relating to the Career Fair can be found on the Career Services website.