On November 19th, Harvard Business School (HBS) visited SUIS Gubei and hosted an engaging business competition for all Grade 10 students.
The event took place at the first-floor IB Study Hall. Students formed small groups and were assigned leading roles within a given market — such as CEO, CFO, and CMO — mirroring the structure of real-world business teams. This setup allowed them to experience firsthand how different functions collaborate in business. Every choice students made directly impacted their virtual revenue, pushing them to constantly adapt strategies to maximize profits, outmaneuver competing teams, and demonstrate business ideas through diverse, innovative presentations.
The primary aim of HBS’s visit was twofold:
01 Promote business education among high school students
02 Inspire curiosity about economics
The event encouraged students to expand their understanding of economics by applying critical thinking and entrepreneurial skills to real-world problems.
The IB Study Hall buzzed with excitement as students gathered in teams of 3-4 for the challenge — as if they were key players in the Mixue market. Within a limited time, they completed three core tasks:
- CFOs:Listed and evaluated creative ideas
- CMOs:Brainstormed concepts for diverse products
- CEOs: Synthesized ideas into a compelling business vision
This immersive simulation not only tested students’ knowledge but also fostered critical thinking, effective communication, and quick adaptation — skills essential for future careers.
The core challenge for these young “executives” was clear yet demanding: Launch a new beverage that meets three criteria:
- Competitively priced
- Aligned with Mixue’s pricing strategy
- Unique appeal to capture a diverse consumer base
This task pushed students beyond product creation — it required them to identify market gaps and craft a beverage with potential to become a daily favorite for the masses.
Reflecting on the day’s success, Mr. Morgenstein, Head of the Humanities Department, noted:
It was great to see this year’s students think critically and work together to apply classroom knowledge to real case studies. The simulation helped them gain practical skills and consider how to use economics in the future—whether starting a business or choosing a career role.
This hands-on experience let students move beyond theory, fostering:
- A solid understanding of business fundamentals
- Essential skills in collaboration and innovative thinking
As the event concluded, the Study Hall was no longer just a room — it became a launchpad for ambitious ideas, with an atmosphere charged with the promise of a new generation of entrepreneurs.
written by
Olivia Yap and Mellow Man