31 March 2011
SERC hosted an enterprise event with a refreshing difference in Downpatrick for students from IT, Media, Hairdressing, Health and Social Care, Joinery, Art & Design and Plumbing.
SERC’s own Student Companies CoppArt, Impressions of Ireland and The Glass Umbrella Theatre Company kicked off the event, sharing their experiences of starting and running a business within the College.
Ted Jensen, founder of Big Ted’s American Cookies then inspired students to ‘get off your butt’ and grab opportunities; and that is exactly what one student did when Ted asked who wanted a packet of his cookies – whilst others raised their hands, the enterprising student got out of his seat and grabbed them!
Big Ted works with a team of students on their idea
Coca-Cola Hellenic then challenged the students to develop a concept to include a strap-line and new label or poster which would celebrate its 125th anniversary. There was a real energy in the room as ideas were worked on against the clock. Each team had to pitch their idea to the judging panel of Paul Cassidy, Coca-Cola Hellenic; Ted Jensen, Big Ted’s American Cookies; and Janice Cooke, SERC. Getting up to present their idea was a challenge in itself for many of the students, but they rocked the mic and impressed the judges. A team of Art & Design students came out on top with their simple yet effective ‘Refreshment that lasts’. Coming a close second, was a team of IT students with ‘A Taste of History’. The judges thought that both were well presented and had the potential to run as campaigns.
The wining team pictured with Emma Armer, Coca-Cola Hellenic; Sharon Browne, SERC; & Paul Cassidy, Coca-Cola Hellenic.
Well done to everyone who took part, and a big thanks to the Coca-Cola team for setting the enterprise challenge, providing expert advice and refreshments for the students on the day.
Winners:
Scott Rodgers, Chris Nixon and Robert Cleland
Runners-up:
Steven McCombe, Lewis McIntosh, Ryan Cheung, Ryan Evans and Kevin McAllister