Anhelina Popiuk, a fourth-year student at the Faculty of Foreign Philology, specializing in 035 Philology (035.041 Germanic Languages and Literature (translation included), first – English), participated in the AMU Autumn School Introduction to Negotiation and Process Management. The event took place in Poronin, near Zakopane, Poland, from November 14 to 18, 2024. It focused on preparing mediators and exploring the nuances of negotiation and conflict resolution. Anhelina enthusiastically shared her experience:
“My time at the autumn school has just come to an end, and I’m really excited to share my impressions.
The format of the event pleasantly surprised me: each university was represented by a single participant. On the one hand, this brought a sense of responsibility, as I wanted to represent my university with dignity. On the other hand, it made it easier to connect with the other participants.
Our journey began in Lviv, where I first met colleagues from neighboring regions. Later, we were joined by representatives from across Ukraine. The diverse specialties of the participants created a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge across various fields, including medicine, law, business, and international relations.
The school was held in Poronin, a beautiful location reminiscent of Bukovel. Activities began the day we arrived, starting with a lecture by Professor Rafał Dymczyk from Adam Mickiewicz University. His introductory session on negotiations highlighted their relevance not only in politics but also in everyday life. One key takeaway for me was the win-win strategy, which ensures mutually beneficial outcomes for both parties.
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The next day, we delved into strategic business management. Our task was to present business projects using tools such as:
- PESTEL analysis,
- Porter’s Five Forces model,
- SWOT/TOWS matrix,
- Perceived User Value (PUV) assessment,
- Porter’s Generic Strategies,
- Strategic Clock.
Among the speakers, Ireneusz Ignacik, a World Bank representative, stood out. He explained financial markets in a way that was both clear and accessible, even for beginners.
The final masterclass was led by Tomasz Majdacki, Director of LEMARPOL. He introduced us to the five most common types of manipulation and guided us through practical exercises to analyze them.
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In addition to the academic program, we had the chance to climb the peak of Hubalówka, explore the charming town of Zakopane, shop for souvenirs, and sample local cuisine. A highlight of the trip was an excursion to Kraków, Poland’s former capital, renowned for its rich history and unique architecture.
Although I had visited Zakopane and Kraków before, this trip brought fresh impressions, new connections, and renewed inspiration.
This experience reminded me of the importance of knowing foreign languages. Today, English is not a luxury but a necessity that opens countless doors. As the saying goes, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’
Working together for the victory!
Office for International Cooperation