Sales student places in top 20 of event

University of North Georgia (UNG) student Billy Brown placed in the top 20 out of 360 competitors in the Speed Selling Finals at the Northeast Intercollegiate Sales Competition held Nov. 14-15 at Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island. About 30 schools sent students to the competition.

Brown, a junior from Woodstock, Georgia, pursuing a degree in marketing, said UNG is setting him up for a successful career.

"It comes down to what we do with the opportunities the university provides," Brown said. "They put us in front of people who can help us build our network."

Students at the event competed for cash prizes, received individualized feedback and coaching from experienced sales professionals, attended skills and leadership-building sessions, and networked to explore potential internship and job opportunities.

Dr. Christine Summers, UNG assistant professor of marketing, said the students are laying the groundwork for those who come after them.

"Billy's outstanding achievement highlighted his preparation, professionalism and competitive excellence," Summers said. "Our whole team's performance continues to elevate our Sales Club and inspire the next generation of UNG student sales professionals."

UNG Sales Club students Emily Armstrong, Austin Kort, Kayla Sensing, Daniela Vargas, and Shelby Wilkins competed at the event, as well.

Summers expressed gratitude to Sales Club sponsors Jan Rooney of State Farm Insurance and Parker Cantrell and Kevin Selleck of CED.

Vargas, a senior from Gainesville, Georgia, also pursuing a degree in marketing, was grateful to meet students from other schools and get out of her comfort zone in the competition.

"It really helped me build my confidence and self-awareness and evaluate my professionalism," Vargas said.