“Neighbors & Stories”: UzhNU students at the Erasmus+ event in INPRO (Rzeszów, Poland)

From August 18 to 22, 2025, six students of Uzhhorod National University took part in the “Neighbours & Stories” program in the city of Rzeszów (Poland). The event was held within the framework of the Erasmus+ project and brought together young people from Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Ukraine for a joint study of Slavic cultures, the destruction of stereotypes and the mutual exchange of traditions.

An atmosphere of cooperation and new discoveries

For five days, the participants actively worked on various creative and cognitive tasks. They drew maps of their countries, marking them with cultural symbols, traditions and characteristic features to show each other what their people are proud of. The students also prepared presentations on national customs, talked about favorite holidays and family traditions, which helped to better understand the cultural wealth of each country.

A special place in the program was occupied by interactive workshops and group tasks, which allowed participants to get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere. Through discussions and debates, young people discussed topics of stereotypes, cultural differences and common values, learned to listen and defend their own position. Excursions were an important addition to the educational part: students visited the Rzeszów Dungeon Museum and got acquainted with the history of the city while walking through its ancient streets.

Thanks to such a rich program, young people not only expanded their knowledge of neighboring countries, but also felt a real team spirit. Every day became a new discovery and at the same time an opportunity to see the world through the eyes of peers from different parts of Europe.

Impressions of UzhNU students

Mishko Vladyslawa, Faculty of Foreign Philology, 3rd year:“The trip to Rzeszów for Erasmus+ is my first experience of such projects. Despite some doubts, this trip turned out to be very fun. A lot of positive moments and meeting incredible people. I am glad that I decided to join this project.”

Keretsman Olena, Faculty of Foreign Philology, 3rd year:“We got to know the city, its history and special flavor. The participants were young people from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland and Ukraine. This gave us the opportunity to share our own experiences and traditions, learn to look at things from different points of view. We discussed topics of stereotypes, cultural differences and common values, participated in debates. This exchange was extremely valuable for me: it helped to broaden my worldview, improve my communication skills in English and strengthen my belief that different cultures can live side by side in harmony.”

Pavlyuk Alisa, Faculty of Physics, 4th year:“A truly wonderful program: it is very comfortable here, a friendly atmosphere and good housing. The food is delicious, there are many interactive activities, so it is never boring!”

Souvenirs for each other to remember the trip

The final chord of the exchange was the exchange of gifts: each participant brought a small souvenir from their country and gave it to their new friend as a memory of this week of friendship, cooperation and cultural discovery.

Thus, the participation of UzhNU students in the Erasmus+ program “Neighborus & Stories” became not only a useful learning experience, but also a step towards creating a single space of mutual respect, cooperation and intercultural dialogue.

Anastasiya Lendel

Information and Publishing Center

• International Activities