Students pitch business, product, and investment ideas to panels of faculty and alums
November 2025 – Drew University hosted its biannual Bear Den, featuring more than 130 students pitching their business, product and investment ideas to panels of industry professionals and subject experts, including Drew faculty and alums.
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Breena Stephen C'27
Students from marketing, branding, entrepreneurship, investment, and finance courses presented their ideas to 30 panelists across 15 panels throughout Brothers College as part of their fall semester coursework.
The panelists provided feedback on the pitches, asking probing questions and offering critiques true to the respective industries.
Following the presentations, students and alums had an opportunity to meet for a networking session, discussing their projects and shared interests and subjects.
For students, Bear Den is a meaningful experience that provides real-world learning.
“This is my third Bear Den,” said Kate Rice C’26, who presented a watch/app idea called TrackTown USA. “Bear Den is a great opportunity for students to be creative and also develop a variety of skills like public speaking and communication which are vital in the business world.”
“Each time I participate in Bear Den, I’m reminded of how valuable the experience is,” added Marilynn Diaz C’26, who pitched Warm Wear, a clothing line with adjustable heating technology. “Every presentation leaves me with deeper insights, improved skills, and greater confidence.”
“I really enjoyed being part of Bear Den,” said Jiaelle Estelus C’27. “It was a light and fun experience, and I really appreciate the opportunity to not only show the hard work I had been working on in class, but also practice presenting to professionals. I hope to take my business idea and grow it more in the future after Drew and become a graphic designer.”
All participants survived the Bear Den no worse for wear, and came out of the experience with skills and connections to take with them.
