Discussions focused on innovative strategies for attracting students from different parts of the world, flexibility in admissions efforts as well as building a consistent image for universities.
Flexibility in a dynamically changing world
The adaptation of Polish universities to changing legal and geopolitical conditions around the world was one of the main themes of the conference. Experts stressed that a flexible approach to admissions process and quick adaptation to new realities are the keys to success on the international scale. Higher education in Poland is constantly evolving, and universities must respond to new challenges in order to remain attractive to students from around the world.
International experience in promoting education
The first day of the conference featured a workshop led by Paulina Boroń-Kacperek, Head of the Center for Postgraduate Education at the Piastów Śląskich Medical University in Wrocław. The trainer presented her experience in promoting studies in markets such as China, Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Germany, and shared best practices and tips for overseas admissions. The event brought together a large number of experts looking for new opportunities for effective communication with university candidates.
Building a strong academic brand
On the second day of the conference, the event participants had an opportunity to explore the secrets of creating recognition for universities around the world. A panel led by Anna Rolczak, Deputy Chancellor of the University of Lodz, focused on best practices used by Polish academic institutions. It was underlined that consistent visual and content communication in both domestic and international admissions was important for potential students when choosing a university.
Support for international students
The conference was a summary of the initiatives implemented as part of the "Welcome Onboard" project, funded by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA). Staff members of the University of Lodz International Relations Office presented actions supporting the adaptation of international students at the University of Lodz carried out under the project. These included the onboarding course, the UL Mentor programme, the Welcome Point space and numerous integration events for international students. Speeches made by mentors (the University of Lodz students) who shared their experiences in helping newly arrived international students during their first weeks in Poland were particularly inspiring.
It should be noted that a Virtual Welcome Point, i.e. a digital information space that allows international students to access key information about academic life at the University of Lodz, was also created as part of the project. It includes detailed data on campus infrastructure, the structure of the university's authorities, information on available scholarships, a variation of didactic classes and insight into student life.
More detailed information on the project activities can be found at the indicated links:
- Virtual Welcome Point – Your guide to the university
- Welcome Point – an information point for new international students of the University of Lodz
- The University of Lodz Mentor Programme – support from experienced students
- Onboarding – interactive familiarisation course
The "University Without Borders" conference was not only an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience, but also an incentive for further development of admissions and promotional activities that strengthen Polish universities in the international academic arena.
Source and photos: International Relations Office, University of Lodz
Edit: Press Office, University of Lodz