The 2025 Business, Engineering, Science, and Technology (BEST) Bootcamp took place earlier this month, providing students from both LMU Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering and LMU College of Business Administration with a one-week intensive program designed to foster collaboration and innovation through a variety of courses and workshops.
Highlights included engaging sessions on artificial intelligence and 3D printing, culminating in a thrilling pitch competition where winning teams earned the coveted big check, celebrating their creativity and entrepreneurial excellence.
“I was thrilled to see the students’ commitment to teamwork,” said Anna Farzindar, clinical professor of computer science and leader of the BEST Bootcamp. “For example, one student from the marketing program at CBA had an amazing idea, and the Seaver College students worked hard to build a hands-on prototype using wires, several IoT kits, and an app to track the data.
“During this bootcamp, we focused on fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, building character, working collaboratively under pressure, embracing competitiveness, and delivering a final pitch in front of judges and a large audience.”
Computer science master’s student Jaini Shah ’25 hopes to build “a successful career as a technology professional, leveraging innovative solutions to solve real-world problems and create a meaningful impact in society.” She described her participation in the BEST Bootcamp as an incredible experience.
“It provided a unique opportunity to blend engineering and business, allowing me to translate my technical coding skills into practical business applications,” Shah said. “Winning third place was a great boost to my confidence and inspired me to brainstorm and refine ideas even further. The bootcamp truly broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of innovation at the intersection of these fields.”
Clinical Associate Professor Sunil Murthy of CBA called the pitches both “innovative” and “exciting,” sharing details about the projects on his LinkedIn:
- My Venue: Simplifying quinceañera party planning for parents by connecting them with venue owners, caterers, and customers.
- My Pathway: An AI-based teaching tool for homeschooling, offering adaptive learning and socialization features.
- Dose: Helping smokers transition away from nicotine vapes.
- Soteria: Enhancing security for female students with a dedicated app.
- Elite Move: Using biometrics to prevent sports injuries.
- Ace Test: AI tool aiding students in test preparation.
Participants visited Varda Space Industries in El Segundo to explore advancements in microgravity drug development through space-launched capsules. The bootcamp also featured talks by alumni and entrepreneurs, including Jordan Justus, CEO and co-founder of Automotus; Candice Delamarre, COO and co-founder of Kit Switch; and Mitch Ewing, co-founder of Haven Project. Topics included urban safety, sustainable modular interiors, and connecting small businesses with government contracts.
Dr. Murthy also expressed his gratitude to the BEST Bootcamp judges: Maria Kisska, Kevin Boyle, Seaver College Dean S.W. Tina Choe, Seaver College Associate Dean Nazmul Ula, and Joshua Spizman.
