The community atmosphere at BSL is one of a kind. I have been fortunate to develop good connections with fellow students, faculty, staff and alumni.

Gina Fiore – USA

Executive MBA

What led to your interest in business?

I grew up in a business family and was exposed to discussions regarding logistics and strategy from a young age. This helped to shape my views in looking at the pragmatic side of things, and to apply this way of thinking to all aspects of life. Even though I pursued a career in the sciences, this pragmatic mindset allowed me to ask the extra question which often is, “what is the point?” I am now looking to take this to the next level by building a more solid foundation in business and combining this with my technical expertise to work in the R&D sector to develop business opportunities in today’s latest technology.

Why did you decide to join BSL?

It’s quite simple, the atmosphere. I was accepted into several business schools, and BSL was the one place that felt like a good fit. The faculty and staff were welcoming and supportive throughout my entire BSL experience thus far. One thing I have learned in life, never underestimate the importance of people and connections.

How has your experience been so far?

My experience at BSL has been very positive. There is a community spirit at BSL which transcends throughout the faculty and entire student population. I have also had the opportunity to learn from talented professors who teach from real world experience and not just theory found in books.

The community atmosphere at BSL is one of a kind. I have been fortunate to develop good connections with fellow students, faculty, staff and alumni. The cohesive environment spans much further than just Switzerland. In fact, when I visit the US, I often connect with the local alumni in the New York area.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

As a child, I was passionate about sports and wanted to be a professional athlete. I learned that was not a likely career path.

Who or what inspires you?

I’m inspired by those who push the envelope. As stated by Steve Jobs in the Think Different ad: “Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”

How do you see your professional future in 5 years from now? What will you be doing?

I envision that I will transition from business development in research to working in Creating Shared Value topics which involve science & technology to help solve today’s sustainability problems.

If you could make one significant change to the world, what would it be?

To help bring people together from different backgrounds and expertise to work as a collective front in tackling some of today’s sustainability problems.