Students from Appalachian State University exhibited data analytics skills during a Microsoft Excel competition, testing their abilities against fellow students in real-world scenarios
The fast-paced, online event was held on April 15. It allowed participants to solve a series of increasingly complex spreadsheet tasks within 30 minutes, relying on quick thinking, proficiency with Excel, and strong problem-solving skills.
The top performers, in finishing order, are as follows.
1. Avery Clark, Marketing (Tie for first place)
1. Rachel Hamlin, Computer Information Systems & International Business (Tie for first place)
3. Connor Perdue, Finance & Banking
4. Enzo Ramos, Economics and Finance & Banking
5. Nicolas Lievano, Accounting and Finance & Banking
6. Ashley Meacham, Accounting and Finance & Banking
The Walker College Dean’s Office sponsored the competition and funded awards for the top three performances. Clark, Hamlin, and Perdue received prizes of $250, $250, and $100, respectively.
Computer Information Systems faculty members Tori Humler and Jeff Kaleta, and Finance & Banking Professor Chris McNeil organized the event.
Up for an Excel challenge?
Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge (MECC) holds periodic online competitions that are free for students. The next MECC online competition opens May 29. Prior competition cases and other training materials are available from MECC.
Download and open the competition file in Excel. For helpful tips, view Humler’s YouTube video in which she solves the case.
The next Walker College Excel Competition is TBA in Fall 2025. High-performing students may have the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas for the MECC Finals in early December.
From left are Clark, Hamlin, Perdue, Ramos, Lievano and Meacham
April 15 winners