Students of the Faculty of Social Science on a study trip in Warsaw
On 10 and 11 January 2025, students of two part-time fields of study – International Relations and Social Projects Management – from the Faculty of Social Science of the University of Wrocław participated in a study trip in Warsaw. Students were accompanied by two supervisors: dr Aleksandra Moroska-Bonkiewicz of the Institute of Political Science and doctoral student Mateusz Repczyński. The trip was a unique opportunity to gain practical knowledge, learn about the functioning of key public institutions and integrate into academic environment. The trip was split into two main stages.
On day one, the participants had the opportunity to visit the Parliament of Poland, where they could visit Sejm and Senate of Poland, curtesy of Senator Wadim Tyszkiewicz. This meeting was a valuable lesson on political and legal aspects of project management and it allowed students to better understand the legislative process. Students’ interest into the topic was tangible throughout the whole visit in the Parliament.
This visit was followed by a meeting with the representatives of polish and international financial institutions funding social projects. Participants listened to the presentation in English on the topic of sources of funding for social projects on the global scale. The presentation was held in the World Bank Group. The next element of the program was a visit in National Freedom Institute, where students engaged in a discussion about the projects supported by the organisation and possibilities of funding non-governmental organisations in Poland. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to gain practical knowledge and exchange experiences with experts.
Day one ended with exploration of Warsaw in smaller groups, which allowed students to learn about the city in terms of social and urban projects.
Day Two – learning through experience.
On the second day of the trip, participants were split into teams and visited various sites related to science, sport, and culture. In the Copernicus Science Centre they were able to explore interactive exhibitions and innovative solutions in education. In the Money Centre they learned about the history of finance and economy management mechanisms. At the National Stadium, they could learn about functioning and managing of one of the largest sport facilities in Poland. Museum of Modern Art also made a great impression on the visitors.
During explorations not only did the students learn specifics of functioning of these places, but also analysed their financing, development, innovations and team management.
Students about the trip – great emotions and even greater benefits.
Participants highlighted unique qualities of the trip and the value of acquired knowledge. Throughout the meetings everybody had a chance to ask questions and learn about the ins and outs of visited places.
Magdalena Przychocka, a student of Social Project Management, underlined meetings in national and international organisations: „ I’m very excited for the study trip! Meetings with experts in international organisations industry is something I really care about. I’m sure that these sessions in leading national and international organisations will motivate us even more to hard, creative work.”
Dominika Sałaga of Social Project Management pointed out a relevant aspect of the integration: „It’s not only a great opportunity to gain more knowledge and new experiences, but also to integrate with other students. It’s a truly unforgettable experience I will remember for a long time. The biggest impression on me was the visit to Sejm and the National Freedom Institute, where key decisions for the country are made. That allowed me to understand their role more clearly. The variety of places we visited during our free time was a great addition to the trip. PGE Narodowy (eng. National Stadium) and many museums showed the diversity of Warsaw.”
Magdalena Gałęcka of International Relations also noticed many assets of the trip: „Study trip is a great opportunity to broaden academic horizons and integrate with others. Shared participation in these initiatives encourages forming bonds with other participants at the same time allowing for the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and experiences. The trip was organised by the students and for the students, which enables active engagement in its organisation, which itself is an innovative method. This approach enables students to test their own project management skills, as well as planning and coordination, which in the context of a future career is an invaluable experience.”
The study trip to Warsaw not only provided the students with theoretical and practical knowledge, but also allowed them to develop organisational skills. The opportunity to meet in person with experts and key institutions for social project management was a valuable experience for all of the participants, regardless of age. On the way back, students exchanged their thoughts and shared experiences to summarize acquired knowledge and inspirations.
Crucial element of the initiative was the support of the dean authorities and administration of the Institute of Political Science. The trip is yet another example that learning through experience is invaluable, and active participation of the students in organising academic events allows them to develop not only knowledge, but also skills necessary in future career.
Authors: Diana Lisowska-Panek and Paweł Skorb
Translated by Nergis Dogan (student of English Studies at the University of Wrocław) as part of the translation practice.
Date of publication: 5.03.2025
Added by: M.K.
