During the official closing of the 13th edition of the Mentorship Programme, the University of Lodz Vice-Rector for Academic and External Relations, dr hab. Radosław Olszewski, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz, expressed his appreciation for both sides of the programme. He thanked the mentors for their passion, selflessness and the invaluable time invested in the development of students, and the mentees for their maturity, courage in asking questions and readiness to test new solutions.
Pure Practice. How Did It Work in Pairs?
For those unfamiliar with the programme, its formula may sound serious, but in reality it is zero tedious theory and one hundred per cent practice. Collaboration in pairs lasted from January to June. During these six months, pairs met regularly in person and online to gradually turn plans into real action. Under the guidance of experienced directors and managers, students faced challenges and verified whether their ideas about a career aligned with reality.
In this edition, 35 mentors took 49 students from nearly all faculties of the University of Lodz under their wings. Students were given real tasks and analysed their professional goals. Mentors opened doors to a world that young people had often previously known only from textbooks. In turn, mentors gained a powerful injection of fresh student energy and a new, often surprising perspective on their own industries.
We would like to warmly congratulate all participants on this fantastic journey. You have been through many hours of intense conversations, breaking barriers, jointly building plans and countless “wow” moments.
13 Years of Tradition and a Big “Thank You” to Mentorship Veterans
Above all, the meeting became a great celebration of gratitude. The UniLodz Mentorship Programme already has a rich 13-year history, during which it has established itself as one of the most prestigious academic initiatives in Poland.
Although thanks were due to each and every one of the 35 experts of this edition, special recognition was given to those who have co-created this success for at least half of the programme’s entire duration. These exceptional individuals – the very foundation of the programme – are mentorship veterans who have supported students in at least seven editions. During the ceremony, they received unique, handcrafted bas-reliefs depicting two apples from the hands of Vice-Rector Radosław Olszewski, symbolising the exchange of knowledge and the unique bond that develops between mentor and mentee.
Our absolute record-holder is Marcin Miller, who has been with us for all 13 editions! Przemysław Andrzejak, Michał Hertel, Dariusz Lis and Aneta Stopczyk have participated in 11 editions. Special thanks also go to the remaining distinguished “veterans”: Wiesława Kuberska (10 editions), Agnieszka Belowska Gosławska, Krzysztof Garbacz, Szymon Midera (9 editions each), Violetta Malek, Bożena Ziemniewicz (8 editions each), Maciej Kulesza and Aleksander Szymański (7 editions each). Thank you for this remarkable perseverance!
The full list of mentorship pairs is available on the programme website.
Power Speech: Success Without Burnout
A speech by Małgorzata Czernecka, a psychologist and founder of Human Power, was a special highlight of the finale of the 13th edition of the programme. The speaker discussed, among other things, the concept of the triad – a tool for filtering everyday life and regaining inner strength, enabling the achievement of outstanding results without the risk of burnout.
The 13th edition of the Mentorship Programme has now come to an end, but the relationships, friendships and professional plans developed within it will remain within the walls of the University of Lodz for years to come.
Join the Next Edition!
We are already planning the next, 14th edition of the programme. If you want to feel this energy, gain a mentor and spread your wings, do not hesitate. Leave your application via the form, and we will inform you about the start of recruitment first. Link to the form
More information about the Mentorship Programme is available on the programme website.
Text: Magdalena Paszko
Photos Bartosz Kałużny
