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Exploring Polish
Culture
By Janee' Mitchell
As a part of their study abroad
program, the Polish Club went on a trip to Europe this summer.
This trip to Europe was the Polish Club's first trip to a
foreign country since the club was started two years ago.
Peter Boltuc, Associate
Professor of Philosophy, Anna Bojda, President of the Polish
Club, and Jonathan Goldbergbelle, Director of International
Affairs, coordinated the trip. All together, there were nine
club members and one guest who went.
The trip lasted for six weeks,
from June 10 to July 22. However, the club was having such an
enjoyable time that eight out of the ten decided to stay longer.
While in Poland, the club saw
the Solidarity Monument in Gdansk and the twelfth century
Teutonic Knight's Castle in Malbork. They also visited the towns
of Gdynia and Sopot.
Club members earned six credit
hours of regular credit or Applied Study Term credit for their
trip. They took two courses at Giedroyc College in Warsaw on
Polish culture and history and on the European Union. Through
courses and site visits, the club received a greater
understanding of Poland and Polish culture. The trip was both
enlightening and fun.
Throughout their journey, the
Polish club went to various cities and museums. They also
visited memorials at the Auschwitz and Birkenau concentration
camps.
Bojda said that "it was such a
great experience" for the club. They were mesmerized by the
sites, the language and the culture. Bojda said that every
member of the club had been impacted in some way. They now have
a stronger group bond and enhanced understanding of Polish
culture.
The Polish Club will be
revisiting Poland next June, so they encourage more people to
join the club. The club welcomes everyone, regardless of race or
ethnicity. For information regarding future trips and club
meeting times please contact Anna Bojda at abojd01s@uis.edu or
6-1081.
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