UNDERGRADUATE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
SEPTEMBER 11-13, 2020
Location: TBD
Conference Mission
- IMPROVE OUTCOMES for underrepresented minority undergraduates.
- INCREASE READINESS for employment or graduate school.
- ADDRESS THE NEED across all academic disciplines
COST
There is no cost for selected students — Transportation, lodging, meals and activity fees will be covered through corporate and member school sponsorships.
APPLY NOW
Join the 2020 class for a transformative experience.
• Submit your application at https://www.jotform.comform/90274183273154 (mobile friendly).
• Deadline: 11:59 p.m. CST July 15, 2020.
• No interview required.
• Scholars notified August 1, 2020.
ABOUT THE CONSORTIUM
Experience: A half century of driving diversity and inclusion in education and employment. To learn more, visit www.cgsm.org
STUDENT FAQS
Why was Competitive Advantage created?
We’re here to drive college and career success among members of historically underrepresented minority groups — African American, Hispanic American and Native Americas. Competitive Advantage is a product of The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, which has worked for more than a half century to increase diversity in corporate leadership and business education.
How would joining the Competitive Advantage benefit me?
As a college undergraduate, you’ll gain the skills to focus your interest and craft your career path. What’s the best way to launch your career? Is graduate education an option? How do you find internships? Is my resume the best it can be? We give you the tools to answer these questions, while introducing you to a valuable network of corporate partners and Consortium alumni who can help you succeed. Plus, corporate partners seeking to fill internships will conduct interviews.
Why this program versus others?
We have a longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion and an admirable track record for fulfilling our mission. Our deep connections with our member schools and to our corporate partners also set us apart. Our program is funded through corporate sponsorships, reducing the financial burden for students. You mentioned corporate partners and member schools, what do you mean?
Support for Competitive Advantage comes from a number of U.S. companies and member schools. These organizations support diversity and recognize the importance of an inclusive environment that represents the constituents they serve. They provide funding so they can have a chance to meet you and provide tools for your success.
How does it work and, what’s the conference going to be like?
You’ll start with a 2.5 day program of workshops. You’ll need to arrive at the hotel by 12 p.m. on Friday. After a busy afternoon and evening of networking, Saturday will also be packed with activities. We finish after lunch on Sunday when you’ll depart for home. You’ll have one-on-one time with corporate partners, a mini career fair, career and graduate school exploration exercises, time to get up and move — and a variety of activities targeted specifically to your year in school. From there, you carry those skills back to school, working with career advisors, and tap into the Competitive Advantage network whenever you need to.
Can I participate if I am unsure about my career interests or have a job prospect?
Yes. We know students often have many decisions to make, so we want to help you explore the many possibilities.
If I’m chosen, where do I stay? What do I wear? What about meals?
You’ll be paired with another Competitive Advantage scholar and you’ll room together at the conference hotel. The dress code for the conference is business casual, but bring a business casual outfit, too. You’ll eat well! We’ll provide lunch and dinner the first day, three meals on the second day and breakfast and lunch before you leave the third day. Have special dietary needs? We’ll make sure your covered.
Can a faculty member or campus administrator nominate me or can I recommend someone?
Yes! Look for the “Refer a Prospect” link in the main menu of our website at gainyouradvantage.org. They or you can submit your information there.
