Seminar Abroad Part 3 - Boston

Bridging Innovation and Culture: Our Boston Experience

After immersing ourselves in the dynamic landscapes of New York and Austin, our journey led us to Boston—a city where history and innovation intertwine seamlessly. Here's a glimpse into our enriching experiences:

Tuesday: Exploring Swissnex and Harvard Innovation Labs

Our Boston adventure kicked off at Swissnex, a hub that connects Switzerland with the world through education, research, and innovation. We dove into the vibrant academic ecosystem of Boston and discovered a wealth of opportunities for collaboration between Swiss institutions and local universities. The visit gave us a clear view of how Swissnex serves as a bridge, fostering partnerships that span continents and disciplines.

Later that day, we visited the Harvard Innovation Labs, where we had the chance to meet Jorge Cortell—an entrepreneur, thought leader, and passionate innovator. Jorge shared his personal journey of launching startups across industries and geographies, and gave us an inside look at how Harvard supports entrepreneurship at every stage. Beyond the business insights, Jorge offered us thoughtful life advice on resilience, purpose, and staying curious. His tour of the innovation space was as inspiring as it was informative.

Wednesday: Engaging with Bridgewater State University

On Wednesday, we headed to Bridgewater State University, a valued academic partner of FHNW. We were warmly welcomed with presentations from professors and students who showcased their work and shared their perspectives on education, innovation, and campus life in the U.S.

Over lunch in the student dining hall, we had the chance to exchange stories and connect with our peers in a relaxed, authentic setting. One of the highlights of the day was attending “Bear Bids,” a pitch event modeled after Shark Tank, where student entrepreneurs presented their business ideas to a panel of judges. It was exciting to witness the creativity, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit on display—and to cheer them on as they brought their visions to life.

Interview with Jakari Griffith Ph.D. from Bridgewater State University

Insights from Bridgewater State University Student William Duseau

Thursday & Friday: Embracing Boston's Culture

Thursday offered a chance to slow down and soak in the local culture with Boston’s iconic Duck Tour. We cruised through historic streets and then splashed into the Charles River, getting a unique view of the city from land and water. It was a fun and refreshing way to learn about Boston’s rich history and vibrant character.

To close out our Boston experience, we headed to Fenway Park on Friday evening to watch the legendary Red Sox in action. The stadium buzzed with energy, and even for those new to baseball, the experience was electric. There’s something truly special about cheering alongside thousands of fans in one of the oldest ballparks in America.

Boston gave us a perfect mix of academic insight, entrepreneurial inspiration, and cultural immersion. We leave this city with new ideas, deeper connections, and a stronger appreciation for the role that collaboration—across borders, disciplines, and perspectives—plays in shaping the future.

Onward we go, fueled by everything we’ve learned and experienced here in Boston.

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