Schulich Business Excellence Academy

ConnectUs Blog Writer Lucia Kwag's Story

This July, I had the opportunity to participate in the Schulich Business Excellence Academy at Schulich School of Business.

As an international student in Canada, I was eager to find a summer program that would allow me to strengthen my business knowledge, explore real-world applications, and build meaningful connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.

After extensive research into various opportunities, I discovered SBEA and was immediately drawn to its emphasis on business education, collaboration, and experiential learning. The program became an incredible opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, challenge my perspectives, and further explore my passion for business.

What made this opportunity even more meaningful was that the program was offered at no cost. Initially, I was unsure whether a free program could provide the same level of value and impact as other highly competitive summer programs with significant fees. However, SBEA quickly changed my perspective. Through engaging workshops, mentorship, and case competitions, I discovered that meaningful learning opportunities are not defined by their price, but by the quality of the experiences, people, and ideas they bring together.

Throughout the week, each day brought new opportunities to learn and engage with different aspects of business. From workshops on product-market fit, entrepreneurship, AI in school and the workplace, and the language of business, I was able to understand how business concepts extend beyond textbooks and apply to real-world challenges.

Beyond the workshops, one of the most valuable parts of SBEA was the opportunity to collaborate with my Pod K members. Working alongside students from different schools and backgrounds allowed me to experience how diverse perspectives can strengthen problem-solving. Under the guidance of our incredible Pod K leader who is currently an undergraduate student in Schulich, we built meaningful connections while developing communication, teamwork, and analytical skills.

The highlight of the program was the Dilawri case competition, where we analyzed whether Canada's largest automotive group should pursue a partnership with BYD. Our team, Ctrl + K, approached the challenge by conducting SWOT analyses, evaluating strategic alternatives, developing implementation plans, and considering potential risks. While many teams recommended go all in or ring-fenced pilot strategy, our team proposed an active wait strategy, focusing on monitoring market developments while preparing for future opportunities.

Being the only team to choose this approach taught me the importance of challenging assumptions and recognize that business problems rarely have a single correct answer. Through countless discussions, revisions, and presentations, I learned how collaboration and diverse perspectives can transform ideas into stronger solutions.

I am incredibly grateful that our team's efforts were recognized with an Honorable Mention, placing 4th overall. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and creativity of my teammates.

For future applicants, my advice would be to approach opportunities with curiosity rather than focusing only on the outcome. The most valuable experiences often come from being willing to learn from others, ask questions, and step outside your comfort zone.

Looking back, SBEA taught me much more than business frameworks. I learned the importance of embracing uncertainty, communicating ideas effectively, and using AI tools responsibly to enhance critical thinking. Thank you to the SBEA organizers, mentors, Scotiabank judges, and all the participants for creating such an inspiring and memorable experience. This program strengthened my passion for business and motivated me to continue exploring how strategic thinking, innovation, and collaboration can create meaningful impact.

SBEA Website - https://schulich.yorku.ca/future-students/business-excellence-academy/

Lucia's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yeda-lucia-kwag-8880073b4/