Frequently asked questions

  

Who constitutes a team?
  • The competition is open to teams of college and or/graduate students of the participating New Jersey, Connecticut, Tennessee only
  • Students must register themselves individually first and then register their team.
  • A team is comprised of no more than 5 people per team
  • Individual students can be part of only one team
What are the proposal requirements?
  • Must include team name and team members
  • Clear articulation of the scope of the problem under consideration
  • Explain why these topics are of interest to the team
  • Explain the models that will be created and used to identify:
    • The source of information
    • Key influencers in creating these trends
  • How will the team determine the information's credibility?
    • Track record of reliable trending topics
  • Can the proposed solution be automated through technology? If so, how?
What is the expected length/size of the proposal?
  • Proposal must be 1,000 words or fewer than two pages
  • Must be submitted in Microsoft Word or PDF format
What are the requirements for finalists?
  • Based on the proposals, six finalists' teams will be selected for the final pitch event in December. The finalist's team will work on the proposals to create the model and make a recommendation at the final event. Each team will be paired with two mentors, leaders from UBS Global teams, for any support on the technical and business aspects of the pitch.
  • In the final event, teams will present their solutions and will be assessed for robustness of the model, commercial applicability and overall final presentation of their recommendation. 
What is the judging criteria for the finalists' teams?

Criteria

Criteria

Weight

Weight

Criteria

  • Data model analysis
    • Appropriate and reasonable methodology
    • Well formulated model;  parameters and variables clearly defined
    • Assumptions explicitly depicted and defended within the model
    • Model functional on the spot
    • All data sources used reputable and properly cited and justified

Weight

30%

Criteria

  • Solution + presentation (content)
    • Clearly articulated problem scope and approach – rationale for the problem statement selected
    • Robustness of the solution i.e. defensible solution with all relevant variables and parameters taken into consideration
    • Potential recommendation based on the analysis
    • Well organized report
    • Clear and fluid writing

Weight

40%

Criteria

  • Presentation
    • Effectively communicated model (i.e. relevant visual aids and clear delivery)
    • Apparent division of labor among teammates
    • Engaging presentation
    • Efficient use of Pitch time

Weight

30%