There are some seminars and lectures that shift your perspective and leave a mark. Attending the CIVICA Honours Seminar at Bocconi was exactly that. A packed but rewarding deep dive into Green Industrial Policy in a Global Perspective, this seminar wasn’t just about academics—it was about seeing climate policy in action, making connections, and yes, enjoying some seriously good food in Milan.
As a Hertie student, I’m used to looking at policy through a governance and economics lens. But this seminar pushed me to think about industrial policy in a way I hadn’t before. Each session tackled big, real-world issues—the geopolitics of industrial policy, the role of the Global South in the energy transition, green hydrogen, and the semiconductor race. We debated the history of the car industry and its climate impact, explored Europe’s competitiveness in a changing world, and questioned what sustainable industrial policies should actually look like.
The professors—Grace Ballor and Alexander Kentikelenis—weren’t just knowledgeable; they were great at sparking discussions that made us challenge our own thinking. One thing I really appreciated was how they approached EU policies with objectivity, allowing us to explore both the successes and the shortcomings.
One of the best parts of this seminar was the participants with diverse backgrounds. Being in a room full of students from Bocconi, LSE, SGH, and IE meant hearing perspectives from not only all over Europe, but also internationally. Everyone brought different experiences and ideas, making every discussion richer. Some of my favourite moments weren’t even in the classroom— but the spontaneous conversations over gelato, discussions over lunch, and the last day where we talked about everything from policy to personal stories.
Instead of just absorbing information, we also got to apply it. In small groups, we presented case studies on some of the most pressing challenges in green industrial policy today. With my Hertie colleagues—Isabella Urbano- Trujillo, Henrique da Motta, and Tashi de Faveri Torres—we tackled:
- Norway’s decoupling strategies and its inconsistent green transitions
- Lithium’s role in the green transition—will Argentina take the lead, or will it be left behind?
- China’s mining investments abroad and their influence on global resource politics and the EV supply chain.
Presenting these cases gave us a chance to think critically, collaborate across backgrounds, and connect theory to reality. It also reinforced how interconnected everything is—how decisions in one country ripple across industries and economies worldwide.
Bocconi made sure we were well taken care of, and that hospitality made all the difference. From great meals that kept us going to a campus tour on the first day and a special evening at Palazzo della Banca d’Italia, everything felt thoughtfully organized. And then there was the grand finale—a closing dinner at Pizzeria Pappila, where we wrapped up the week with the best pizza and desserts. Some of these interactions indeed turned into friendships, the exchange truly felt more than a simple academic one.
Outside the seminar, Milan itself was incredible. The mix of historic charm and modern energy made it the perfect setting for an intellectually stimulating week. We wandered through Brera, soaked in the Duomo’s beauty, and even found time for a classic aperitivo or two.
This seminar wasn’t just a learning opportunity—it was a turning point for me. I’ve always been passionate about climate policy, but now I see it through a broader, more economic and industrial lens. Understanding how supply chains, industrial strategies, and policy decisions shape the future of sustainability has given me a whole new perspective.
But more than anything, what I take away from this experience is the people. Thanks to CIVICA, I got to connect not just with fellow Hertians but with students across Europe. These connections, these conversations—they're what make an experience truly memorable.
Article credits: Sonakshi Saha.
Photo credits: Sonakshi Saha.