Junior Year Honors Projects
I-Core consists of junior-level, undergraduate students studying Marketing, Finance, Operations and Supply Chain Management, and Team Dynamics and Leadership in a block unit. Central to I-Core on the IUPUI campus is a cross-functional, semester-long project in which student teams integrate these disciplines.
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Currently, in the Fall 2023 Honors I-Core section, students are working towards creating a new startup company focused on the development of a product based on Artificial Intelligence.
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My group and I have created a company called "HumanityAID AI™", whose main product is "VolunteerUnited", an AI based application targeted towards NGOs and their volunteers. With this application, the volunteers will improve their performance and their productivity on the field.
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As follows, our project analysis will be featured:
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SPRING 2024
BUS-L 313: The Ethical Responsibility of Business
For my honors contract experience, I conducted an in-depth analysis of unethical business practices, focusing on Shein, a fast-fashion giant. Through my research, I explored the company’s environmental impact, labor practices, and history of copyright infringement. I examined how Shein’s heavy reliance on virgin polyester contributes to high carbon emissions and assessed its attempts to improve its sustainability image through partnerships.
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Additionally, I delved into the company’s labor policies, uncovering issues such as unsafe working conditions, excessive working hours, and allegations of child labor—practices that go against ethical business standards. I also analyzed Shein’s history of copyright infringement, particularly its alleged use of AI-driven plagiarism to exploit small designers.
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Reflecting on my findings, I proposed ways in which Shein could become more ethically responsible, such as improving labor conditions, implementing better environmental policies, and investing in original design rather than copying others. This project reinforced my belief that businesses must balance profitability with ethical responsibility. Prioritizing employee well-being and sustainable practices not only aligns with moral values but also enhances a company’s long-term success and reputation. Through this experience, I developed a deeper understanding of business ethics and the importance of corporate accountability in today’s global economy.
