Bachelor of Commerce student Shenoli Perera is the winner of the Semester 1, 2020 Dalyell x Salesforce x Deloitte Challenge, which required students to respond to a real-world business problem in the style of a TikTok video: "How can selected Salesforce technologies be used by Northern Trail Outfitters to ensure business continuity during the global coronavirus health crisis?"
See what Shenoli has to say about the challenge, the Business Dalyell Program, and the opportunities that helped secure her an internship with Mav3rik.
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| Shenoli Perera |
What are the key takeaways from the Dalyell x Salesforce x Deloitte challenge?
The Dalyell x Salesforce x Deloitte challenge helped me gain invaluable experience. From getting to know about the Salesforce technologies, to the month long mentoring from our Dalyell lecturers - Dr Sandra Seno-Alday, Carlos Vazquez and Praveena Chandra - to developing critical thinking skills in providing a business solution under the COVID-19 environment, and finally getting the opportunity to network with industry partners from Salesforce and Deloitte.
What are a few of the challenges that you faced?
The submission of the project took place in the form of a TikTok video. As someone with no prior background, it was somewhat challenging. Yet, our Dalyell lecturers provided us with guidance which helped me adjust to the new platform within a month’s time.
Another major challenge was time management. Especially as a full-time university student, managing time across various units of study and other projects was a challenge. However, scheduling and prioritising time across activities helped me to make the best of this challenge.
How do you think the Dalyell program helped in terms of your career?
There are no words to describe how privileged I feel to be a part of the Dalyell community. Apart from networking with industry partners and developing my skills and knowledge, I was fortunate to secure an internship through this competition. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my mentor, a senior employee at Salesforce, who referred me to Mav3rik, a specialist Salesforce platform solutions provider.
As a student aspiring to be a Business Analyst, I have always had the goal of gaining industry experience. Being an international student, it was challenging to apply for internships. After numerous rejections due to residency requirements I was discouraged, doubting that I would ever gain industry experience while I am a student. However, this competition was truly a blessing that helped me achieve one of my biggest goals. I am extremely grateful to the Dalyell team. Without you, I would not have accomplished this.
Do you have any advice for current Dalyell students?
My main advice for current Dalyell students is to broaden your skills and knowledge by taking part in various activities and the opportunities the university readily offers you. The Dalyell community is the best place to start. The friendly Dalyell lecturers would certainly guide you through, from tailored mentoring sessions to the professional skills workshops and real-world projects, creating an excellent environment to begin. Time spent here as a student is a worthwhile investment in your future.
Life as a student is not only about getting good grades, it is also about developing valuable skills such as disciplinary expertise, critical thinking skills, innovation skills, communication skills, interdisciplinary effectiveness, and most importantly, building your network. These are the stepping stones to success.
“Believe in your dreams, no matter how impossible they seem.” – Walt Disney
Learn more about the Business Dalyell Scholars Program here.
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