Ali Choucair (USP VII Cycle 3 Scholar), as team leader, and his teammates Hassan Hazime and Aren Sassounian won the PwC & Wiley University Challenge representing the American University of Beirut. The prize consists of a full scholarship to study and take the internationally recognized CPA exam.
This one-of-a-kind competition hosts 10 of the top universities from the MENA region and a total of 20 competing teams, testing candidates on their business acumen, case solving skills, finance and accounting knowledge at the CPA, CMA and CFA levels.
Ali and his team scored the highest in the first round of the competition which eliminates 15 of the 20 teams participating. The second round revolved around a case study where an Indian car company plans to acquire a European one. The team also scored the top rank again as they conducted the best case-study and strategy among the 5 remaining finalists.
Ali states that being a fresh graduate with a CPA under his belt is a dream for every student. Reflecting on this journey he mentioned: “It was truly a great honor for me to represent AUB and OSB in this regional competition. Working in a cooperative, well organized, and productive team helped me enhance my teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills. This competition, with all the appreciated effort put in it, provided me with a unique opportunity of growth in which I applied my skills and gained proficient knowledge.”
Photo Captions:
Ali Choucair and his teammates during the PwC & Wiley Regional University Challenge.