ALUMNI BCSS

The first two editions of the BCSS were hosted by the  Barcelona Graduate School of Economics (BGSE), and the last two, by the International Center for Competitiveness (ICC) of the IESE Business School, both in Barcelona.

Past editions of the BCSS received applications from 24 different nationalities. When asked about their decision to attend the BCSS, most attendees were practitioners who were motivated to learn the latest techniques and practices for their jobs and refresh their understanding of the theoretical concepts underlying their work.

Asked to rate the quality of instruction, the structure of the courses, and the quality of materials on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 being poor, 5 being excellent), participants in the 2010 Barcelona Competitiveness Summer School gave the instructors an average rating of 4.3, the course contents and methodology an average rating of 4.5.

Alumni in the world

Students’ opinion

Reflecting on their experience, many students reported that one of the best aspects of the program was the remarkable international representation. According to Ernesto Flores, who works for ITSON, Technology Institute of Sonora in Mexico, and attended the II BCSS, "the internationality of the attendees was a real bonus. In addition to what I was learning from the professors in class, the other students opened my eyes to the unique approaches utilized in other countries."

Beverly Morgan, from Jamaica, participated in the II BCSS, said that she was most appreciated “working in small groups to maximize learning. Listening to other people working allows you to make the most of your experience, since you get to compare strategies and learn what is most useful for others.” 

Lina Volpini de Carvalho, Manager of the Market Access Unit and International Relations at Sebrae-MG, Brazil, reported that she decided to attend the III BCSS because "it was a unique opportunity to learn cluster strategy from the world's leading theorists and practitioners while meeting other people from around the world who are involved with all aspects of cluster projects."

Hakon Gunnarsson, Founder and Managing Director of Gekon from Iceland, attended the IV BCSS: “I wanted to learn more about strategic analysis in clusters and value chain competitiveness management, and have the opportunity to share my experience in the fields of innovation and competitiveness with professionals from other countries.

Zorica Maric, Senior Advisor of the Ministry of Economy and Regional Development from Republic of Serbia, a student in the IV BCSS, said that “after the school I gained a profound understanding of cluster initiatives and their application in economic development policies”.