A team of four Mason Korea Conflict Analysis and Resolution students showcased their talents on a global stage, securing sixth place at the 23rd annual Intercollegiate Negotiation Competition (INC) held at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. The team competed against seasoned law students from 64 teams representing 31 universities worldwide.
Led by Dr. Roland B. Wilson, the team—comprising Shin Mo, Jihyun Lee, Yesong Oh, and Ysabela Dausin—faced complex international business scenarios designed to test their arbitration and negotiation skills. Participants were judged on teamwork, legal and international business knowledge, dispute resolution strategies, communication skills, and persuasiveness in high-pressure situations.
“While the competition lasted two days, we prepared for over two months,” shared Jihyun Lee, a freshman. “Meeting at night and working together until dawn became routine. I’m deeply grateful to my team for enduring this demanding process with me and to Dr. Wilson for his invaluable mentorship, which equipped us with effective strategies that led to our success.”
For Ysabela Dausin, a sophomore from the Philippines, the experience underscored the power of teamwork. “Our team built a collaborative and supportive dynamic, evident in how my teammates translated for me and ensured I felt included when Korean was needed. As someone bilingual, I fully empathized with the nuances of expressing technical concepts in one’s most comfortable language. Beyond that, I also had the opportunity to connect with students from other universities, like the National University of Singapore and the University of Tokyo.”
Despite being newcomers, the Mason Korea team stood out. Their arbitration skills earned commendation from judges and peers, and their negotiation strategies exhibited composure and adaptability, particularly during a match against the University of Tokyo team, a consecutive first-place winner.
“This experience highlighted not only the incredible skills and capabilities of our students but also the unique strengths of the Conflict Analysis and Resolution discipline,” remarked Dr. Wilson.
Motivated by their achievement, the team aims to participate in more international competitions, honing their expertise in arbitration, negotiation, and mediation as they continue to measure themselves against the best in the world.
November 26, 2024