"The Intern" Scores for Charity

Think that Donald Trump's TV show "The Apprentice" boasts real-life action? The Rutgers University School of Business at Camden had it all over the popular television show during the week of April 4, when Rutgers-Camden business students scoured southern New Jersey as part of "The Intern," a test of business acumen and a race against the clock.

Part "The Apprentice," part "Amazing Race," this Rutgers-Camden School of Business program boasted a unique energy. Three teams of four undergraduate Rutgers-Camden business students were tasked with "Goodwill Hunting," which allowed participants until the end of Thursday, April 7, to identify, secure, and deliver high-value used merchandise to Goodwill stores.

This was more than a mere scavenger hunt, though: in addition to delivering product that stands to yield the most for Goodwill, the students also developed cogent business plans explaining their product choices, and their strategy for turning the used products into potential revenue that will allow Goodwill to provide career training for disadvantaged area residents.

It all came together on Friday, April 8, when the teams were judged by a "board room" consisting of David Swoyer, CEO of Susquehanna Patriot Bank; Dr. Milton Leontiades (dean, School of Business); and Dr. Lucy Ford (assistant professor, management).

The winning team was married to an inspired strategy: they secured the donation of numerous wedding gowns, a high-ticket resale product that stands to generate more than $16,000 for Goodwill Industries of Southern New Jersey. Overall, the three teams secured donations valued at $26,000. Goodwill, in turn, applies its income to job training programs for region's disadvantaged and disabled citizens.

While not the $250,000 purse offered by The Donald on television, the top prize was $5,000; Susquehanna Patriot Bank contributed $1,500 for the second-place team, and $1,000 for the third. The experience alone was invaluable. "I think this has been a great experience, just learning to multitask under pressure," said "Intern" Marguerite Miller (WILLINGBORO).

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Author: Press Release-Rutgers-Camden