Group photo of all participants at the 2025 Freshman Core Competencies Training Camp.

To help new students better understand the College of Management’s core values—ethics and social responsibility, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and global perspective—as well as to familiarize them with campus resources such as international exchange programs, career development support, and personal growth opportunities, the College organizes its Freshman Core Competencies Training Camp each year. Through a series of lectures and interactive activities, the event fosters a stronger connection between students and the College community.

This year’s 2025 Freshman Core Competencies Training Camp kicked off on September 10, 2025. Right from check-in, surprises awaited the students: participants were intentionally mixed into cross-department groups, seated with unfamiliar classmates to encourage curiosity and connection from the start—setting the stage for the team-based activities that followed.

Students are seated in their assigned groups, ready to begin the day’s activities.

The event began with an opening address by Prof. Timo Eccarius, Director of the International Relations and Accreditation Office, who welcomed students with warmth and humor. He encouraged them to embrace the diverse learning environment at NSYSU and to discover their strengths throughout their academic journey. Dr. Eccarius also introduced the College’s extensive international network of nearly 80 partner institutions across Europe, North America, and Asia, as well as dual-degree opportunities, exchange programs, and study abroad scholarships. He urged students to make the most of these global resources to broaden their worldview and develop long-term vision.

Timo Eccarius, Director of the International Relations and Accreditation Office, welcomes the incoming freshmen on behalf of the College

Following the international overview, Prof. Shih-Sian Jhang, Director of the Office of Career Development, encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones and be open to exploration and new experiences. He highlighted the office’s wide range of services—from career prep courses and guest lectures to one-on-one résumé consultations, career counseling, and recruitment events. Dr. Jhang reminded students that career planning is a lifelong process and that college is the perfect time to begin exploring one’s passions and building a strong foundation for the future.

Shih-Sian Jhang, Director of the Office of Career Development, encourages students to break out of their comfort zones.

The highlight of the day was the interactive group competition led by alumna Miny Chen (陳姿婷), CEO of Efreetech and a graduate of the IBMBA program. Miny opened with a humorous story about NSYSU’s famous monkeys—an experience many students could relate to—and quickly had the room erupting in laughter. She then engaged students with thought-provoking questions inspired by the animated film Inside Out, inviting everyone to reflect on their emotions, aspirations, and learning styles.

Miny Chen, CEO of eFET Information Integration Co., Ltd. and an IBMBA alumna, leads the group competition with great enthusiasm.

Miny introduced a unique challenge: each team was tasked with designing their own version of “Future Island NSYSU”, combining the core competencies with the film’s theme of personality islands. A countdown began, and the room filled with excited energy as teams selected leaders, brainstormed ideas, and translated their vision into eye-catching posters.

Students engage in lively discussion and creative brainstorming as they design their team’s unique “island blueprint.”

After creating their "island blueprints," teams had to pitch their concepts to earn votes—symbolized by small cards—from roaming judges. Senior students joined as evaluators, and the room buzzed with persuasive pitches, lively discussions, and creative displays. From confident speakers to inventive visuals, each group showcased their originality and team spirit.

Each team passionately promotes their island concept, aiming for the highest score within the limited time.

With each round, students became more comfortable expressing themselves and collaborating with others. When the final countdown ended, every participant wore a smile of pride and accomplishment. During the score tally, students continued chatting and bonding, forming new friendships and support networks.

During the score tally, students chat joyfully, reflecting on the experience and the friendships built.

The top three teams received surprise prizes and were invited on stage for a final round of presentations. They impressed the crowd with humor, vision, and strong communication—demonstrating the global mindset, creativity, and execution skills that the College strives to cultivate.

Winning teams receive prizes on stage and present their final island pitch in front of the entire audience.

As students left the event, laughter and warm conversation lingered in the air—proof that the 2025 Freshman Core Competencies Training Camp had not only achieved its goal of introducing College resources but had also laid the foundation for lasting connections and personal growth.

University life is a journey that is neither short nor long, but always meaningful. We hope all freshmen will make the most of the College’s resources—knowledge, experiences, and community—to build the most exciting version of their future.

-- Provided by the Office of Career Development / Edited by College of Management Media Team