Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is MARS Apprentice?
The program is designed around the central theme of experiential education and provides the rigour of an academic course while simulating real life business situations. It runs as a four or five week competition involving two teams of undergraduate commerce students going head-to-head on real life business case challenges sponsored by four different industry partners. Up for grabs are four or more full time paid internship positions that can range from a four to sixteen month appointment. With a focus on team work, performing under pressure and meeting deadlines, the program structure forces participants to work together irrespective of weekly outcomes. Nobody is eliminated but the winning team each week accumulates points that help them go through to the interview round. Besides the team with the most cumulative points at the end of the four/five weeks winning MARS Apprentice, two wild cards are also selected from the losing team to go into interview rounds. These wild cards are based on nominations by industry judges during the weekly boardroom presentations. Successful candidates from the interview round earn an internship with one of our host companies.
2. How are Selections Made?
1. In order to potentially obtain a spot in the MARS Apprentice program, applicants must submit the following pieces: The MARS Apprentice Application form found on the DMA website – http://mars.mcmaster.ca. A resume including a cover letter A two-minute video as to why they should be selected as one of the next MARS Apprentice interns. 2. Applicants sit through a round of interviews before a panel of selected individuals. The interview will be comprised of behavioural and creative questions pertaining to the applicant and how this specifically relates to the MARS Apprentice program. 3. Successful applicants will be notified by the MARS Apprentice chairs of the results.
3. I don’t have a video camera?
We will be making a video camera available. Please email Katie Borg at borgke@mcmaster.ca two days in advance to book the camera.
4. How long are the internship positions for?
The internships are 4 month summer internship positions starting in May.
5. Will taking an internship delay my graduation?
No. The internships are during the summer.
6. How busy will I be during the second semester?
You will be able to balance the challenge tasks amongst your group members and school work.
7. How does the challenge work?
There will be two challenge teams. They will be going head-to-head competing for the internship positions.
For news releases, further information and Apprentice updates visit http://mars.mcmaster.ca/apprentice.html