What an incredible week at the MIT Bootcamp in Zagreb!

When I first received an email from Algebra University suggesting I apply for a free spot at the MIT Bootcamp, I had no idea what I was getting into. Being both curious and competitive, I couldn’t let this opportunity slip by. Even though the bootcamp was set right in the middle of tourist season—my busiest time—I decided to apply, thinking I’d figure out how to manage it later if I got in. Well, I did get in, and even then, I still had no idea what lay ahead.

The schedule looked intense, but my Croatian brain naïvely assumed that ‘team work’ until 1 a.m. probably meant some sort of fun team-building activity over drinks. How wrong I was! What awaited me was one of the most challenging weeks of my life, testing me physically, mentally, and yes, emotionally. Yet, I’m emerging from it stronger, wiser, and full of incredible memories shared with my cohort.

The bootcamp was a masterclass in leadership and innovative business development, and I know it will take some time for everything I learned to fully sink in. I feel so lucky that this experience came to my hometown, and I’m profoundly grateful to Algebra University and Mastercard for making it possible. Being taught by some of the brightest minds from MIT was truly a privilege.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the bootcamp so memorable: my fellow participants, the coaches and instructors, the team at Algebra University, our pitching judges, Mastercard for the scholarship, and, of course, the amazing cantina chef and her staff!

Now it’s up to me to put this knowledge into action and bring something fresh and exciting to you all!