Ryanna Law and Blake Dawson made Durham College (DC) proud at the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) World Championship in Orlando, Florida.

After first excelling in their MOS exams (which are embedded into a number of DC’s Faculty of Business programs), the pair qualified for the competition with stellar showings at the MOS Canadian Championship in June.

Competitors travelled from across the globe to represent their countries at the event earlier this month. Law (Accounting – Business) put her PowerPoint 2019 skills to the test while Dawson (Marketing – Business Administration) gave it his all in Word 2019. Each student was tasked with completing an exam, as well as a project, in their respective MOS program. They were graded on the results they produced as well as their speed.

Only the top ten in each category were revealed, and though neither DC student cracked that threshold, it was still a positive experience.

“I was grateful to be there,” said Dawson, who is already looking forward to next year’s event. “It was definitely fun. The support I received was great.”

For Law, the experience of testing her knowledge and skills against other students from around the world is one she won’t soon forget, and heartily recommends.

“If you have the opportunity to go to this competition, or any other competition, definitely take it,” she said. “Being able to show your skills is so helpful in proving yourself for future career opportunities.”

After their hard work, the pair and their fellow competitors were able to enjoy some time as tourists, including a trip to Walt Disney World.

Law, Dawson and the other members of Team Canada competed under the watchful eye of Lysa Amaral, director of Brand and Global Marketing for CCI Learning, which organizes the Canadian MOS events. She was impressed with both DC students, crediting Dawson for his critical thinking, attention to detail and tenacity, while lauding Law for her thoroughness, responsiveness, professionalism and leadership.

“These skills and traits are indicative of what Durham College instills in their students,” she said.

 With programs that incorporate important technical skills like MOS programs, DC continues to lead the way in preparing students for the job market.

Two Durham College (DC) students are packing their suitcases after qualifying for this month’s Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) World Championship in Orlando, Florida.

Ryanna Law (Accounting – Business) and Blake Dawson (Marketing – Business Administration) competed in the MOS Canadian Championship in June. Students who excel in their MOS exams (which are embedded into a number of DC’s Faculty of Business programs) can compete in the virtual event to showcase their skills and knowledge.

Both DC students were tasked with using Word or Excel to create a new document or presentation. That was followed by a quiz on the finer points of their respective program.

“I was a little bit nervous because I wasn’t fully sure what to expect going into it,” explained Law. “It just seemed like something fun to do.”

Dawson had a similar approach to the competition.

“It wasn’t too stressful for me, since I didn’t really think I would win anything from it and entered with low expectations,” he said.

Both were pleasantly surprised. Law finished first in the PowerPoint 2019 category while Dawson was second in Word 2019. All first-place finishers earned a trip to the upcoming World Championship, July 30 – August 2. The winner of the Word category bowed out, paving the way for Dawson to join the trip.

“It’s an extremely cool opportunity that I didn’t think I’d be able to have, so I’m extremely thankful and excited,” said Law.

The success of the DC pair came as no surprise to their professors.

“As a professor, you can predict those who will excel in the course. Ryanna was one such student who exhibited dedication and commitment to the class,” said Jacqueline Russell, who taught Law in Business Computer Applications 1.

Muhammad Rashid taught Blake in the same course.

“I am proud and highly excited to hear of Blake’s success in the Canadian Championship,” he said.

Students who excel in their MOS exams have an edge in the job market, with recruiters and prospective employers looking for students who have an aptitude for Microsoft Office. That’s why DC prioritizes it, according to Jennifer Souch, a professor in the Faculty of Business.

“MOS certifications are highly valuable and offer numerous benefits. Recognized globally, they showcase essential skills and improve job prospects,” she said. “MOS certifications give students a competitive edge, enabling efficient communication, data analysis, and presentation creation. Ultimately, they enhance professional development, leading the way for success in the job market.”

But first, Law and Dawson will proudly represent DC in Florida later this month.