BIP in Poland: part 2

Vol 27, Issue 26, 25 April 2025

In the first part, I have shared some practical tips about living in Gdańsk and how to make the best experience out of it. In this part, I will talk about the actual on-site program – which took place from 7th to 11th of April – and why it is worth applying for it as a business student. 

Day 1

On the very first day, we had an introduction to the program, and then some ice breaking questions to get to know the whole group better. Afterwards we were divided in groups of five, each from a different country, and were given a task for the final project. Then we all went on the excursion in the campus of the University of Gdańsk. It was truly fascinating to see different faculties, for instance we had a tour in the biology department and then also in journalism faculty. At the end, we even had a chance to visit the room where students are practicing making news and filming it, using different cameras and equipment.  

Day 2

On the second day, we had our usual light breakfast in the main library of Gdańsk, and afterwards headed to explore the sustainable energy solutions based in Gdańsk city. First, we all went to the hydropower station and had a tour about how it all operates. Also, a tour guide told us a bit of the historical part involved in the story of the station. Students even had a chance to observe the way the system works.

Afterwards, we hopped on the bus again and all went to the wind farm, where students were able to observe how wind turbines operate and how it is inside the stations. During the whole visit we also got to know the theoretical part better, as the guide told us more in details about all renewable energy sources and ways to collect it. 

Day 3

As a part of our third day programme, we had an excursion in the touristic destination – Sopot. A tour guide shared some interesting historical insights about the city and how it contributes to the overall sustainable tourism in Poland. Afterwards we all travelled to the more modern city of Gdynia and had a tour there. It is considered to be modern because it was initially just a fishing village, but in 1926 has officially become a city. During the tour students learned more about the fishing business in Gdynia and just a general reason for the tourists to come there. 

Day 4

On the fourth day, we had a tour in the Solidarity Museum of Gdańsk, which was actually self-led, because we all got a pair of headphones and were able to listen to the audio guide on the way of exploring the museum. Afterwards, all students finally got the time to work on our final project and film a video for it.

Day 5

As the last day of our on-site part of the BIP, we had a presentation of our final projects and then a closing ceremony, where we all got our certificates of attendance. At the end of the day, we even had a pizza party to celebrate our finishing point of the awesome program.  

Why should you apply? Having participated in the program about sustainability is a great way to enhance your CV, as many employers nowadays care about their employees beings aware of it. This particular program will also provide you with the basic understanding of how to implement sustainable practices in business and tourism while also making it profitable and attractive for the tourists. Simply put, it is just a great way to meet new people, network, and get to know a new country and its culture. Additionally, it is a great and affordable option for those who cannot go on long-term exchange due to, for example, financial or family reasons.