With the increased complexity of policy decisions compounded by globalization, energy constraints, security concerns, and financial instability, there is a significant need to prepare the next generation of policy students to know how to apply their rigorous academic training in a practical and professional environment.  The case competition is meant to provide a test environment, or a training grounds for these students.

Thanks to our sponsors, we are able to bring together expert judges currently working in public policy fields so that graduate students at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs have the opportunity to test their abilities under pressure, and to receive honest feedback about how they can further hone their skills.  For the judges and sponsors, this is a rare chance to connect with each other and to do their part in mentoring a generation of leaders who hope to, one day, be working alongside them.