Baldwin High School Participate in Adelphi University’s Apprentice Challenge

Global Business Academy Students Compete in Annual Competition

Baldwin High School’s Global Business & Entrepreneurship Academy students recently put their skills to the test at the 2023 Apprentice Challenge hosted by Adelphi University. Since 2007, the annual competition has been bringing together ambitious high school students, grades 9-12 from across Long Island. Up to ten students from each school can participate. The team that produces the most successful marketing plan is awarded the Adelphi Apprentice title.

This year, a total of 209 students from 26 different schools formed mixed teams to compete. Out of the eight Baldwin students who participated, Danielle Mardy and Justin Victor made it to the final round with their team.

“The Apprentice Challenge at Adelphi University forces our students outside of their comfort zone by having them work with students from other high schools from around Long Island. It also challenges each team to develop an entire marketing plan for a real-life scenario in one hour,” explained Mr. Gregg Kelley, Baldwin High School business teacher.   

Adelphi’s Apprentice Challenge is part of the Annual High School Special Event Series, providing students with an opportunity to challenge themselves while collaborating with expert business faculty and marketing professionals. The competition presents an ideal platform for participants to learn fundamental marketing components, including the four P's and how to create a successful marketing plan. The contenders then apply their acquired skills to work cohesively in teams, culminating in the development of a marketing plan based on a sample case assignment, which is typically linked to a local Long Island-based business. The teams present their plans to a distinguished panel of judges, with the most successful plan receiving the esteemed title of "Adelphi Apprentice."

The client for this year’s case assignment was Guac Shop Mexican Grill. Founded by Adelphi University alumni, Matthew Tesoriero, the successful quick-service restaurant has recently focused on targeting and increasing the patronage of nearby college students. The relationship with neighboring universities has facilitated growth and inspired the inclusion of Guac Shop in the student meal plan. Students teamed up to produce an effective business plan that could make this partnership with college campus dining halls come to fruition.

Participating Students from Baldwin High School