I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. It is my favorite holiday since it unifies families that may live across the state or nation over a wonderful meal and mutual gratitude. I would like to express my gratitude to everyone in my network. Knowledge and learning are continuous, “upward-marching” processes that can only be made possible through collaboration and open communication. I would like to thank everyone in my network (professors, mentors, peers) for being open ears and constructive voices aiding me in my journey as an academic.

It is because of you that I am ecstatic to announce that at the 2018 Murphy Cup: Strategic Marketing Competition I was distinguished as “Most Knowledgeable Contributor” by the panel of judges provided by UnitedHealth Group out of the other 24 incredible participants. I was certainly "lucky" to receive this honor, but more thankful to everyone who has helped prepare me for opportunities like these. Moreover, I would love to mention the other distinguished colleagues I got the pleasure to meet, Linda Fiorito (Best creative), Emily Nyvall (Best Leader), and my partner, Katie Ford (Best Presenter).

While recognition for hard work is rewarding, I cannot begin to express how incredible of an opportunity it was to work with UnitedHealth Group. Special thanks to Chris Murphy, Andrew Norman, Terry Clark, Paul Long, and the panel from UnitedHealth Group.

Furthermore, I cannot believe the caliber of students I got the opportunity to meet this weekend. Drake's College of Business and Public Administration curated a press release for the students who participated. I was fortunate enough to be quoted in the release, "Through events like these, students from Creighton and Drake University are differentiating themselves and showing how we can become long term assets for companies upon graduation." Additionally, I was enthralled with how competitive and engaging the atmosphere was. Taxing, exhilarating, and productive are just a few of the many words that come to mind. I would do it all again in a heartbeat.

To conclude, if there is anyone in my network that would like to discuss the opportunity I was given with the Murphy Cup or regarding anything relating to marketing strategy and industry dynamics, do not hesitate to reach out. It is incredible what can be accomplished just by taking initiative and opening up a channel of communication. Spreading information and opening a dialogue is the LEAST I could do to thank all of my peers, mentors, and professors that made me the person I am today.

With this incredible event behind me, now I begin the long journey of job searching for careers after graduation.

Happy Holidays,

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Best,

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Noah B Marsh

Entrepreneur | Researcher | Craftsman

BSBA Marketing Research | Minors Data Analytics & Spanish