In March 2026, a team of four undergraduate students from Corvinus University of Budapest traveled to Lausanne, Switzerland, to compete in the inaugural in‑person edition of the International Olympic Case Study Competition (IOCSC). Their victory not only highlighted the university’s strength in business education but also showcased the growing impact of Hungarian international students on the global stage. This article explores what the win means for prospective students, how the competition unfolded, and what lessons aspiring participants can take away to strengthen their own academic and extracurricular profiles.
Why the International Olympic Case Study Competition Matters
The IOCSC brings together undergraduate teams from around the world to solve real‑world challenges faced by the Olympic movement. Unlike traditional business case contests that focus primarily on profitability, the IOCSC asks participants to consider social impact, athlete welfare, and the long‑term sustainability of sporting events. For students interested in sports management, event planning, or nonprofit leadership, the competition offers a unique platform to apply classroom theory to pressing global issues.
Corvinus University’s win demonstrates that a solid foundation in analytical thinking—gained through programs such as the Case Track, CIBS, and CBS courses—can be successfully adapted to unfamiliar domains. The victory also reinforces the university’s reputation as a hub for international collaboration, drawing students from diverse backgrounds who bring fresh perspectives to complex problems.
Inside the Winning Team’s Journey
From Campus Preparation to Lausanne
The Corvinus quartet—Andrei Krajuhin, Desislava Dostinova, Gergely Ganyecz, and Kseniia Pyzhova—had previously collaborated at the Thammasat Undergraduate Business Challenge in Bangkok. That experience built trust and clarified each member’s role, which proved invaluable when they faced a completely new subject area: accompanying and supporting young elite athletes.
Preparation began with a deep dive into the case provided by the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique. Rather than relying solely on financial models, the team examined athlete development pathways, mental health support systems, and community engagement strategies. Professors Miklós Stocker and Zsolt Havran guided the students, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a mindset focused on human and social impact.
Key Factors Behind the Victory
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Combining business analysis with insights from sports science and sociology allowed the team to propose holistic solutions.
- Clear Role Distribution: Each member owned a specific segment of the presentation—research, visual design, storytelling, and Q&A handling—ensuring a polished and coherent final delivery.
- Effective Communication: Fluency in English, honed through Corvinus’s international programs, enabled the team to articulate complex ideas confidently to a multinational jury.
- Shared International Experience: Prior participation in cross‑border competitions fostered mutual respect and rapid decision‑making under pressure.
What This Win Means for Prospective International Students
For students considering Corvinus University—or any institution with a strong case‑competition culture—the Lausanne triumph offers several takeaways:
1. Leverage Existing Academic Tracks
Corvinus’s Case Track and related courses provide a structured environment to hone analytical, presentation, and teamwork skills. Prospective students should look for similar programs or extracurricular clubs that emphasize real‑world problem solving.
2. Seek International Exposure Early
Participating in global challenges—whether virtual or in‑person—builds cultural competence and expands professional networks. Universities that facilitate exchange programs, summer schools, or joint projects give students a competitive edge.
3. Develop a Versatile Skill Set
The IOCSC victory underscores the value of adaptability. While technical knowledge in finance or marketing is essential, the ability to pivot to topics such as athlete welfare, sustainability, or community impact can differentiate candidates in recruitment processes.
4. Build Strong Mentor Relationships
Professors Stocker and Havran played a crucial role in guiding the team’s preparation. Engaging with faculty who have industry experience or research interests aligned with your goals can provide mentorship, feedback, and access to resources.
Actionable Steps to Prepare for Competitions Like the IOCSC
Step 1: Identify Relevant Coursework
Review your curriculum for modules on strategic management, marketing, operations, or sports management. If such courses are unavailable, consider electives or online certifications that cover these areas.
Step 2: Join a Case‑Competition Club
Many universities host student‑run organizations that simulate case competitions, host workshops, and invite alumni judges. Active participation helps you practice under timed conditions and receive constructive feedback.
Step 3: Practice Cross‑Cultural Communication
Work on presenting to diverse audiences. Join debate clubs, language exchange groups, or international student associations to improve clarity, confidence, and cultural sensitivity.
Step 4: Develop a Personal Impact Narrative
When preparing for a competition, think beyond the numbers. Ask yourself how your proposed solution affects people, communities, or the environment. Crafting a story around human impact often resonates strongly with judges focused on social value.
Step 5: Secure Faculty Mentorship
Approach professors whose research aligns with the competition theme. Request brief meetings to discuss your ideas, ask for reading recommendations, and schedule regular check‑ins to track progress.
How Corvinus Supports Student Success in Global Competitions
Corvinus University offers a range of resources designed to help students excel in international contests:
- Case Track Program: A structured pathway that integrates case‑solving workshops, guest lectures from industry professionals, and internal competitions leading up to global events.
- International Office: Provides guidance on visas, travel grants, and accommodation for students traveling abroad for competitions or conferences.
- Career Services: Offers resume reviews, interview preparation, and networking events with recruiters who value case‑competition experience.
- Research Centers: Facilities such as the Neuro‑ and Digital Marketing Research Center (NEDIMARC) and the Regional Centre for Energy Policy Research give students access to data sets and analytical tools that can enrich case solutions.
- Student Organizations: Groups like the Student Union and various academic clubs foster leadership, teamwork, and event‑management skills.
Looking Ahead: The Next Edition of the IOCSC
The organizers have announced that the upcoming International Olympic Case Study Competition will focus on themes linked to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This shift presents an opportunity for students interested in mega‑event logistics, legacy planning, and sustainable tourism to apply their skills in a high‑profile context.
Corvinus University’s newly launched International Sports Business master’s program and its Sports Management specialization aim to prepare students precisely for such challenges. By combining rigorous academic training with practical exposure to international sporting bodies, the university hopes to maintain its competitive edge in future editions of the IOCSC.
How to Get Started at Corvinus University
If the story of the Lausanne champions has inspired you to pursue a business education that emphasizes real‑world impact, consider the following next steps:
- Submit your application today – Explore undergraduate and graduate programs that align with your interests in business, sports management, or international relations.
- Schedule a free consultation – Speak with an admissions advisor to learn about scholarships, entry requirements, and campus life.
- Share your experiences in the comments below – Let us know if you have participated in case competitions or have questions about preparing for events like the IOCSC.
- Explore our related articles for further reading – Discover more about Corvinus’s academic offerings, student success stories, and tips for thriving in international academic environments.
Final Thoughts
The victory of Corvinus University’s team at the International Olympic Case Study Competition is more than a trophy; it is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning, international collaboration, and mentorship. For prospective students, especially those arriving from abroad, the win illustrates how a supportive academic environment can transform classroom knowledge into global recognition.
By embracing case‑competition opportunities, seeking diverse experiences, and leveraging university resources, you too can position yourself for success—whether on the podium of an international contest or in the professional arena that follows. The journey begins with a single step: exploring the programs, connecting with mentors, and daring to tackle challenges that extend beyond traditional business metrics.
