March 12, 2025

Ferris State student Benji Zorn takes third in 'Perfect Pitch Competition'

Ferris State University Business Administration major Benji Zorn jumped at an opportunity to participate in the 2025 Perfect Pitch Competition – on short notice. 
 
Zorn and fellow participating students had opportunities to network with students from other universities across Michigan while putting their communication and branding skills to the test. 
 
The Grand Rapids native performed strongly among competitors at the event at the Midland Community Tennis Center, hosted by Northwood University’s American Marketing Association students last month. 
 
“I placed third, gaining invaluable experience, forging new connections, and learning more about what these competitions entail—especially as Ferris State plans to host one this fall,” said Zorn, who is minoring in Professional Sales with a Data Analytics certificate. 
 
Zorn and Theodore Fanco, a College of Business student from Alto, prepared for the competition to represent Ferris State 
 
The Perfect Pitch Competition featured 30 students from four Michigan universities: Ferris State, University of Michigan-Flint, Northwood University and Saginaw Valley State University.  
 
Competitors were tasked with communicating their job qualifications in 90 seconds effectively, presenting two to three selling points highlighting their qualifications, presenting specific examples supporting their strengths and demonstrating confidence and persuasion talents to move the hiring process forward. 
 
Judges for the 2025 Perfect Pitch Competition included industry professionals from CRC Equipment and Sherwin-Williams. The judges’ efforts included feedback and networking opportunities. 
 
“Through my sales courses, leading the Professional Sales Club, and competing in national sales competitions, I’ve learned that success in sales is built on service,” Zorn said. “Being available for your customer—whether it’s a vacation, weekend or late at night—lays the foundation for trust and long-term relationships. I saw this firsthand while working in hospitality at the X Games, where I provided top-tier service to high-profile clients.” 
 
As a sophomore, and away from the classroom, Zorn is a proven champion. He won the 2024 Disc Golf Singles National Championship last April in Rock Hill, South Carolina, firing a three-under-par 28 in the final round to win a singles national championship.