Student Recognized at Provincial Entrepreneurship Challenge 

Submitted by Michael Richards, Student Leadership & Co-Curricular Learning Officer 

Business Marketing student Maria Arraya recently joined peers from across the province to take part in the Cross-College Entrepreneurship Challenge (CCEC), a fast-paced competition that brings together entrepreneurial-minded students from Ontario colleges. With only a few days to prepare, teams tackled real-world business challenges from industry partners and presented their solutions through a final video pitch to a panel of judges. 
  
For Maria, the experience was both eye-opening and rewarding. “Participating in the CCEC was an incredible experience, one I’m so glad I said yes to,” she said. “Collaborating with peers from Humber and other colleges pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best way possible.” 
  
Despite having just met her team days before the event, Maria and her group quickly built trust and developed a solution they were proud to present. Their efforts earned them the Best Video Award, which recognized their creativity and clarity in communicating their idea. 
  
“Working on real client scenarios made the challenge feel meaningful and relevant,” Maria reflected. “It allowed us to apply our skills in a hands-on, impactful way and helped us understand the kind of problem-solving expected in the professional world. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and would encourage any student to take part. It’s a challenge worth embracing!” 
  
In addition to sharpening her business skills, Maria highlighted the importance of adaptability, clear communication, and collaboration under pressure. These are all valuable takeaways that will continue to support her personal and professional growth. 
  
Maria’s participation in the CCEC will be recognized on her St. Lawrence Experience Record (SER), which highlights student involvement beyond the classroom and showcases key employability skills. 
  
Experiences like the CCEC demonstrate how students at SLC are complementing their learning and putting skills into action. Students are encouraged to explore similar opportunities and look out for more ways to build their SER. Stay tuned!