Reporter

The Society of Human Resource Management at CSU Bakersfield competed in a national two-day competition in Salt Lake City, Utah, where they placed 12th out of the 27 teams that competed.

CSUB competes in the West Division, and this year the team competed in Division II.

The student case competition is an annual competition for human resource majors. The event brings together HR professionals, students, and student chapter advisors from various colleges and universities.

The SHRM Case Competition focuses on a number of HR issues such as management practices, training and development, compensation and benefits, employee/labor relations, or health, safety and security.

Cases dealing with HR scenarios are created for students to read, analyze, and develop solutions and recommendations. A team made up of 2-5 students represents CSUB, in both oral and written presentations. Judges then review and evaluate both written and oral presentations.

All teams compete on the first day and on the second day the finalists are announced; finalists will compete for first place.

Lisa Salinas president of the SHRM organization stated that, “participating in the competition is a commitment” and their main goal is to, “learn, network and of course win.”

CSUB students dedicate so much time to the competition as well as juggle between classes and their daily lives.

Salinas revealed that CSUB students gain exposure to HR problems that they may face one day, and the team struggles and grows together.

Students also, hear from keynote speakers, have the opportunity to sit down with local HR practitioners, and are able to engage with fellow attendees.

She hopes for CSUB students to “strengthen their ability to think strategically, make ethical decisions, and develop leadership and presentation skills.” She wants CSUB students to advance both personally and professionally.

“Being exposed to something that will be my future career has been the most valuable experience,” said Alma Ramirez, business administration major with a concentration in human resources.

Ramirez said that although the experience was intimidating at first, she felt very proud to represent CSUB.

Freshman Cassandra Garza, human resource management major, stated that she hopes to one day be apart of this worthwhile experience.

“I have heard about the SHRM Case Competition, and I hope to one day gain exposure to the fresh knowledge, skills and ideas from HR students from various colleges and universities.”

SHRM hopes to receive many more opportunities to network with other students and showcase their knowledge to HR practitioners.