Marketing majors at CSP have the chance to participate in a national Digital Marketing Competition, showcasing their knowledge and skills gained throughout CSP’s Marketing Program. In previous years, Professor Brian Evans’ teams have been ranked 38th, 20th, and 17th, each year progressing higher in the ranking. “I am hopeful for a top-10 finish this year,” Evans says.
Students form their teams, pick their project from the competition’s established list, and set to work developing an entire marketing strategy plan. Each team must conduct thorough research, develop a comprehensive digital marketing plan, and create a variety of digital assets for the client to use. Throughout the development process, students are encouraged to take advantage of CSP’s research library, as well as consult with the program’s faculty for guidance along the way. “At the competition, students present their project to a panel of judges, showcasing their strategy, execution, and results,” Evans says. “For example, in a past project, our team worked with a local nonprofit to increase their online donations through targeted social media campaigns and email marketing, resulting in a 25% increase in donations.”
Participating in the Digital Marketing Competition is a great opportunity for students to network at the event, sharpen their marketing, leadership, and teamwork skills, and develop a portfolio they can show future potential employers, heightening their chances of landing a job.
Evans enjoys helping students through new challenges and diverse experiences within digital marketing, something the Digital Marketing Competition promotes. “My favorite part of the competition process is seeing the students’ growth and confidence as they progress through the project. It is incredibly rewarding to watch them apply their knowledge, overcome challenges, and present their work with pride. Participating in the competition is important for students because it provides a real-world experience that goes beyond the classroom. It challenges them to think critically, work collaboratively, and adapt to changing circumstances, all of which are crucial skills for a successful career in marketing.”