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By Michelle Lopez
In today's increasingly virtual world, building meaningful relationships can be a challenge — especially in online learning environments. That's why the FIU Business Professional MBA Online program partnered with Gamechangers Consulting to launch the Gamechangers Challenge, a 30- day experience designed to transform networking, enhance communication and foster personal and professional growth.
Unlike traditional networking exercises, the Gamechangers Challenge is built on action, leveraging daily microengagements to create lasting behavioral change. The challenge encourages participants to engage in purpose-driven actions focused on relationship-building, self-reflection and gratitude — proven strategies for strengthening both professional and personal connections.
In the first cohort to participate, 83 participants logged over 18,000 actions throughout the challenge, significantly strengthening their professional networks. One of the top participants in the cohort was Paulson Valcourt, a Miami native who described the experience as transformative.
"The Gamechangers Challenge helped me gain confidence in building meaningful connections," said Valcourt.
"Before this, I thought networking was just about knowing as many people as possible. But I realized it's about connecting with individuals who bring value to your life, whether academically or professionally."
The initiative was the brainchild of Sergio Tigera (MBA '15, BBA '01), founder of Gamechangers Consulting. Tigera and his team designed the Gamechangers Challenge to address a common issue in leadership development — creating sustainable behavioral change.
"The challenge wasn't a lack of knowledge or skills — it was about creating consistent, meaningful actions that drive real transformation," Tigera explained.
For students like Mano Wared, who lives in San Diego and works remotely, the Gamechangers Challenge made all the difference.
"This is my first time doing online school. After COVID, we all went online, and my work just became remote. I didn't feel as isolated at work, as I kind of feel right now with school," said Wared. "This is definitely a new experience for me because there are the human connections, the human interactions faceto- face, that are missing."
After students completed the challenge, they took a survey and regrouped online to review the results together. According to the student feedback, 82% of participants reported a greater sense of belonging, 81% took proactive steps to strengthen relationships and 74% formed at least three new connections.
Valcourt, who aspires to become a financial analyst, believes the challenge should be incorporated into more courses.
"It fosters real-world connections, drives students toward success, and ultimately enhances the learning experience," Valcourt explained.
