Strengthening Consulting Through Innovation

The afternoon shifted from introductions to application as interns explored the business concepts that will support their consulting work throughout the week. Through presentations from experienced professionals and mentor guidance, students continued developing the skills needed to create thoughtful recommendations for their Nigerian business partners.

The first session featured Business Director Eli Seiden, who introduced interns to SWOT Analysis. Students learned how businesses evaluate their Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to understand their current position better and make informed strategic decisions. The presentation demonstrated how this framework can help identify opportunities for improvement and will serve as an important tool as teams continue developing recommendations for their assigned businesses.

Next, Business Director Zac Clark led a session on Canva, Photoshop, and Web Design. Interns explored how digital design platforms can be used to create marketing materials, improve a company's online presence, and develop professional branding that effectively communicates a business's mission. Students were encouraged to combine creativity with strategic thinking as they began producing resources for their Nigerian business partners.

Following a short break, Eric Rosenstein presented Technology in Business, discussing the growing influence of technology across today's business landscape. He highlighted the role of digital innovation and emerging technologies in improving communication, increasing efficiency, and supporting long-term business growth. Throughout the session, interns were challenged to consider how technology could strengthen the consulting recommendations they will present later in the week.

The afternoon concluded with Executive Director Marshall Bailly's Negotiations Lecture and Activity, where interns practiced the communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills required to navigate real-world business challenges. Through interactive activities, students explored effective negotiation techniques and learned how productive conversations can lead to stronger partnerships and mutually beneficial outcomes.

After the lectures, consulting teams reunited to discuss the day's lessons and begin applying them to their projects. Students reflected on their conversations with their Nigerian business partners, brainstormed marketing and infrastructure ideas, and started organizing strategies they will continue developing throughout the week.

The day concluded with the program's first mentor meetings, where interns met individually with experienced professionals and international development leaders. These conversations provided personalized feedback, fresh perspectives, and valuable encouragement as teams continued refining their consulting projects in preparation for their final presentations.