University of Silesia. Meeting Point

International students during Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture in Cieszyn

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Contents: University in brief ............................................................................

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Interdisciplinary................................................................................. 6 Study areas ..................................................................................................... 8 Faculties .......................................................................................................... 10 Programs in English .................................................................................... 12 Study in Polish! School of Polish Language and Culture .............. 14 Meeting point ......................................................................................

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Poland ..............................................................................................................

Upper Silesia .................................................................................................

Erasmus ...........................................................................................................

International cooperation ........................................................................

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Shaping your future while making memories ....

Students’ Union ...........................................................................................

Students’ Media ..........................................................................................

Leisure ............................................................................................................

Calendar of Events ....................................................................................

Sports ..............................................................................................................

Career Center ..............................................................................................

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Useful information

........................................................................

Academic Calendar ....................................................................................

Accommodation ..........................................................................................

University of Equal Opportunities .......................................................

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Contact details ...................................................................................

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View from the Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library, Campus in Katowice

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Did you know?

University of Silesia means:

• one of the largest public universities in Poland

• over

2,000 teaching staff • more than 35,000 students • over 200,000 proud alumni

Knowledge-based economy

University’s mascot ‘Usiołek’ [ooshowek]

An integral part of a vibrant, growing community, University of Silesia cooperates closely with private sector industries, and local and national agencies to serve research needs and contribute academic expertise in practice.

University of Silesia is responsive to the evolving needs of the labor markets and tailors its curricula accordingly.

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International

Interdisciplinary

University of Silesia is a vibrant member of the world academic and research communities. International cooperation is a top priority. Our students enjoy regular opportunities to participate in an array of exchange programs by visiting partner institutions the world over.

University of Silesia offers programs of study in a wide range of disciplines including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and technology. Choose from numerous high-quality degree tracks at the Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral levels.

Strength in Diversity Throughout Silesia’s rich history right up to the present day, people of all walks and different cultures and traditions have lived, worked, and played together in this colorful region of Southern Poland. In today’s Silesia, the cutting edge dovetails with tradition, enabling innovation, adding value, and opening opportunities for economic development and social enrichment.

Friendly atmosphere At University of Silesia you will become a welcomed member of a warm and energetic scholarly family — and it’s a big family.

You’ll meet your fellow students and build rewarding associations with approachable subject matter specialists and inspiring mentors. Our academic staff love what they do. At University of Silesia, you will too. Every student is an individual; your professors’ primary role is to enable you to follow your passions, develop your skills, hone your tools, and fulfill your dreams.

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Euro

Discover University of Silesia in Katowice.

Start by visiting our website at www.english.us.edu.pl to learn more.

Then come

and see for yourself.

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Interdisciplinary: University of Silesia in Katowice is one of the largest and most dynamically developing public universities in Poland.

Founded in 1968, University of Silesia quickly established a reputation as a vibrant academic institution and an important interdisciplinary research hub. With a tradition of launching new programs to best meet the needs of rapidly changing labor markets, University of Silesia offers students a variety of programs and specialized fields of study.

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Programs offered by the University of Silesia are systematically evaluated by the National Accreditation Committee and the University Accreditation Committee to ensure quality education.

As an interdisciplinary university, University of Silesia provides a vast range of study options in a broad array of fields.

All programs are divided into specializations tailored to students’ current needs and applicability toward their future careers.

Interdisciplinary

Faculty of Philology, courtyard, Campus in Sosnowiec

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Interdisciplinary

Study areas Social Sciences University of Silesia places strong emphasis on the social sciences. During their course of studies our students obtain qualifications which allow them to become highly-valued lawyers, psychologists, managers, teachers, and scientists.

Graduates are enabled to both satisfy their interests as well as make worthwhile contributions to their world.

Natural Sciences The laws of the natural world, the symbiotic environment, the materials that comprise everything we see, touch, and taste — these are of paramount importance to those who choose to delve into the fascinating field of natural sciences. At University of Silesia, professional laboratories, brilliant professors, and international research cooperation ensure first-rate opportunities for quality preparation for future career paths.

Science and Technology Innovative, cutting-edge research is being conducted in interdisciplinary areas of science and technology, and University of Silesia is a player; providing state-of-the-art laboratories and a top-notch faculty corps of dedicated researchers affords students high quality of study in rewarding and exciting fields.

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Interdisciplinary

Gallery at the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, Campus in Cieszyn

Humanities

Art

University of Silesia is home to the humanities, whose focus is mankind’s place in creation, his history, language and culture. Programs in both classical and modern European languages are offered, as well opportunities to master such important languages as Chinese and Arabic. Students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to secure professional futures in advertising, media, cultural institutions, and education.

The creation and reception of art is among the most vital aspects of human life.

While artists are born, professionals are made. University of Silesia’s programs are designed for people who are ready to go beyond their interests in self-expression and personal-development in order to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful professional life.

To browse a detailed, up-to-date bulletin of programs and specializations, visit www.english.us.edu.pl.

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Interdisciplinary

Faculties: The heart of the University of Silesia is in Katowice, but the arms and legs are satellite campuses based in four other cities of the region: Sosnowiec, Chorz贸w, Cieszyn, and

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Faculty of Philology, Campus in Sosnowiec

Rybnik. The University of Silesia consists of twelve faculties and five additional university-wide and inter-faculty schools providing innovative study programs.

Interdisciplinary

Faculties & Schools of the University of Silesia in Katowice: 1. Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection 2. Faculty of Computer Science and Materials Science 3. Faculty of Earth Sciences 4. Faculty of Ethnology and Educational Sciences 5. Faculty of Fine Arts and Music 6. Faculty of Law and Administration 7. Faculty of Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry 8. Faculty of Pedagogy and Psychology 9. Faculty of Philology 10. Faculty of Radio and Television 11. Faculty of Social Sciences 12. Faculty of Theology 13. Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in Mathematics and the Natural Sciences 14. Inter-Faculty Individual Studies in the Humanities 15. International School of Political Sciences 16. School of Polish Language and Culture 17. School of Management* *By the way, the different colors used in the list above are far from arbitrary; they represent the official colors used by each of the faculties of the University of Silesia.

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Interdisciplinary

Programs in English The University of Silesia offers programs of study in English at the Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral levels. Studies in English are addressed to those candidates who are looking for professional knowledge in fields important for the world’s economic and social development. Qualifications obtained by graduates are excellent preparation for undertaking careers on the global stage.

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Student from Korea

Please visit www.english.us.edu.pl/programs-in-english

to learn more.

Interdisciplinary

The Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library, Campus in Katowice

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Interdisciplinary

Annual parade during the Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture, Campus in Cieszyn

Study in Polish!

School of Polish Language and Culture At the University of Silesia a vast selection of programs are available in Polish. Foreign students are encouraged to join in, acquire and improve their Polish and to study and socialize in Polish, empowering them to become a true part of the fascinating Polish experience and all it has to offer, including the future potential to contribute to a welldeveloped and growing European economy.

The School of Polish Language and Culture, a branch of the University of Silesia, runs a variety of successful language courses specially scaled to meet the needs of different learners.

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Please visit: www.sjikp.us.edu.pl for detailed information and to find up-to-date lists of available courses.

Contact: School of Polish Language and Culture E-mail: szkola@us.edu.pl Phone: +48 32 200 94 24 Fax: +48 32 251 29 91 Address: pl. Sejmu Śląskiego 1 40-032 Katowice, Poland

Interdisciplinary

Country presentations during the Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture

Polish in no time Here in Silesia you can really sink your teeth into the Polish experience, pick up the language, and encounter new traditions.

We provide a wide range of programs taught in the beautiful and rich Polish language — which is not so hard to learn as it might sound. University of Silesia’s School of Polish Language and Culture will not only improve your language skills and deepen your knowledge and appreciation of Polish culture, but will even expand your perspectives to enrich your understanding of your own native culture.

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Meeting point

Poland

is a crossroad of cultures. Here, at the very heart of Central Europe, not only does East meet West, but North meets South. The rich array of cultures, traditions, perspectives, and values permeate and enhance one another.

Poland offers not only cultural but also geographical diversity: from the beautiful Baltic Coast to the Great Lakes District, to the virgin forestland, and breath-taking mountains, all within an adventurous train ride’s reach.

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Did you know?

Poland is the biggest country in Central Europe, is a member of both NATO and the EU, has a population of over 38 million people, and is home to two million students.

Come, and we’ll update that to two million and one.

Meeting Point

Upper Silesia is a center of industry and economy.

It is also well known for strong local and cultural autonomy. Silesia has a unique structure — it consists of more than 70 municipalities with a total population of approximately 4.6 milion people to practice your Polish with.

ChorzĂłw

Sosnowiec

Katowice Rybnik

Thanks to a well-developed road, rail, bus and tram infrastructure, commuting between cities in the region is cheap, fast, and easy. Access to forests, parks, and green areas ensure tranquility and contact with nature.

Cieszyn

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Meeting Point

Erasmus Day at the University of Silesia, Campus in Katowice

Erasmus Every student of the University of Silesia has the opportunity to spend one or two semesters studying in a partner institution abroad. To encourage these international exchanges, the University of Silesia has signed almost 450 Erasmus bilateral agreements of cooperation with institutions in 29 other European countries. It’s a very big deal.

The Erasmus program allows you not only to study but also to take up a training period in a chosen country. Take part and see why so very many Erasmus participants have enjoyed extremely rewarding experiences.

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To find out more, visit www.erasmus.us.edu.pl

Contact: Erasmus Office E-mail: erasmus@us.edu.pl Phone/Fax: +48 32 359 11 78 Address: Bankowa 12, 40-007 Katowice, Poland

Meeting Point

International Cooperation As a vibrant member of the global academic community, international cooperation is a paramount priority at University of Silesia.

We establish and maintain long-term cooperation with our global partners on a number of different levels, including educational, research, and cultural.

University of Silesia has signed over 500 bilateral agreements with partner institutions in countries all over the world.

We believe that it is crucial to teach, discover, and transfer knowledge in a form that is not only fascinating but also applicable in the world and everyday life.

Numerous international research projects conducted by University of Silesia students, alumni, and faculty increase the potential and effectiveness of the university and the global academic community it adds value to.

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Shaping your future while making memories

Law students from ELSA (European Law Students’ Association)

At University of Silesia, while we believe that studies are an important means to a future career, we also realize that there’s more to life than textbooks and term papers. At the University of Silesia, you can increase your knowledge, gain valuable skill sets, and even acquire professional experience through interning while having a great time meeting new friends by joining any of the numerous students’ clubs.

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The Students’ Union The Students’ Union at the University of Silesia has a long tradition. The cultural, social, and scientific events the union organizes are a vital part of university life.

For more information, visit www.studenci.us.edu.pl.

Shaping your future while making memories

Students’ theater rehersal, Summer School of Polish Language, Literature and Culture, Campus in Cieszyn

Students’ Media At the University of Silesia, students create opportunities to develop their interests and passions in journalism and a variety of other media work. Here are some examples: Internet Television of the University of Silesia — among the first in Poland, featuring important cultural, social, and scientific events from Katowice and Silesia, often even broadcasting live. For more information, visit www.telewizja.us.edu.pl.

Radio Egida — students’ radio, on the air since 1969, 100% student-made.

For more information, visit www.egida.us.edu.pl.

Suplement — run by students for students, this magazine keeps the student population up to date on academic life, cultural events, and other subjects near and dear.

For more information, visit www.suplement.us.edu.pl.

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Shaping your future while making memories

Leisure

Students from Georgia performing traditional dance

In Silesia you will find countless options to spend your free time. Here you have a wide variety of choices within an hour’s drive: mountain ski slopes, climbing rocks, forest lakes, amusement parks. It is also a gateway to the capitals of Central Europe: Bratislava, Budapest, Prague, and Vienna, as well as to other Polish cities like Kraków, Poznań, Warszawa, Wrocław.

Calendar of Events You have to try pretty hard to get bored in Upper Silesia. It’s not so much knowing what to do, but choosing. Numerous cultural events throughout the region provide year-round entertainment. Here are just a few examples of some of the most popular cultural events you will want to be a part of in Silesia:

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OCTOBER Otrzęsiny [otshenshinny] — traditional initiation ceremonies for new students.

Organized by senior students, Otrzęsiny culminate in a huge party. For more information, visit www.otrzesiny.com.pl.

NOVEMBER Ars Cameralis Festival — three full weeks of concerts, exhibitions, meetings, installations, you name it. Organized annually since 1992, Ars Cameralis Festival is among the biggest and most important cultural events in the Upper Silesia region. For more information, visit www.cameralis.art.pl.

Shaping your future while making memories

DECEMBER Christmas Eve at the University — every year the School of Polish Language and Culture organizes a traditional Polish Christmas Eve celebration for foreign students.

JANUARY Katowice Comedy Carnival — the most hilarious comedy shows are featured at two theaters in Katowice: Stanisław Wyspiański Silesian Theater and Korez Theater. For more information, visit www.karnawalkomedii.pl.

FEBRUARY Odjazdy [odyazzdee] — one of the largest rock events in Poland, takes place in Spodek in Katowice.

MARCH Interpretations, National Festival of Directing Art — one of the most important competitions for theater directors in Poland.

For more information, visit www.festiwal-interpretacje.pl.

APRIL Student Festival of Science — students’ adventures in science and their most interesting findings, featuring tests carried out on the streets, colorful parades, scientific experimentation, and “science” taken with a pinch of salt. For more information, visit www.festiwalnauki.us.edu.pl.

M AY Juwenalia Student Festival — the largest annual students’ festival in Poland. Students take over control of cities from mayors and

then run riot at countless concerts and parties. For more information, visit www.juwenaliaslaskie.pl.

JUNE Industriada — annual festival of Industrial Monuments route in Upper Silesia. Various events organized in many locations throughout the region, connected with the history of industry here. For more information, visit www.industriada.pl.

J U LY Summer Garden Theater — open-air theater festival held over summer weekends, presenting the latest Polish performances and attracting hundreds of people.

For more information, visit www.letniogrodteatralny.pl.

AUGUST OFF Festival — one of the most important and biggest annual alternative music festivals in Europe, organized since 2006, when the first festival was staged in Mysłowice.

For more information, visit: www.off-festival.pl.

SEPTEMBER International Students’ Folk Festival — ensembles and performers from around the world present cultural contributions from distant continents. Held since 1979, this festival is hosted by the Students’ Folk Ensemble “Katowice”.

For more information, visit www.festiwal.us.edu.pl.

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Shaping your future while making memories

Sports At the University of Silesia there are an abundance of sports to take up:

AerobicsAikidoAmericanFootball AthleticsBadmintonBasketball ChessClimbingDancingFitness FootballFutsal HandballJu-Jitsu JudoKarateKendoKung-FuLacrosse SkiingSnowboardVolleyball

and many others‌

All sport facilities are located near lecture halls or dormitories.

For more information: www.azs.us.edu.pl

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Shaping your future while making memories

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Shaping your future while making memories

Career Center The Career Center at the University of Silesia offers students a variety of assistance and support, among them:­­ – Career counseling,­­ – Professional preferences diagnosis, – Occupational growth projections, – Resume and cover letter guidance, – Various workshops on such themes as negotiating, public speaking, time management, group work, leadership, and self-assertion, – Postings of internships and employment opportunities, – Internet database of job listings, – Online platform where students can upload their resumes to increase their visibility to potential employers, and – Professional entrepreneurship guidance from START — Academic Entrepreneurship consultants.

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Shaping your future while making memories

Student from France

To learn more, visit the Career Center’s webpage at www.bk.us.edu.pl, then write to bk@us.edu.pl.

Contact:

Career Center E-mail: bk@us.edu.pl Phone: +48 32Â 359 19 82

Address:

Bankowa 12 a, 40-007 Katowice, Poland

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Useful information Academic Calendar Academic Year Starts: 1st of October Class: October-December Christmas break: end of December Class: January Exams: two weeks in February Winter break: one week in February Re-take exams: February-March Class: February-April Easter holiday: Easter Sunday and Monday and a few extra days Class: April-June Exams: two weeks in June Summer holiday: July-August Re-take exams: September

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Useful information

Polish traditions — Christmas greetings

Spanish students signing Christmas carols

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Useful information

Accommodation University of Silesia offers over 1,500 rooms, including shared rooms, single rooms, and efficiencies, in dormitories located in three cities: Katowice, Sosnowiec, and Cieszyn.

The campus in Katowice is situated near picturesque woodlands; amenities include student clubs, cafes, shops, tennis courts, and gym.

Sosnowiec

Katowice In Sosnowiec, dormitories are located near the lecture halls. In the vicinity there is also a cafeteria, student club, and grocery stores.

In Cieszyn, there are three dormitories located directly by the lecture halls, cafeteria, and student clubs.

Cieszyn

www.english.us.edu.pl/accommodation 30

Useful information

University of Equal Opportunities The University of Silesia in Katowice places the utmost importance on providing equal opportunities in the access to higher education for people with disabilities.

Our university is constantly re-examining the needs of students with disabilities and the challenges they may encounter during their studies. We are committed to ensuring equal access to sources of knowledge, new educational programs, and modern technological solutions.

If you have a disability or health condition and need additional assistance, we encourage you to contact us.

Contact: Office for Disabled Students E-mail: bon@us.edu.pl Phone/Fax: +48 32 359 19 98 Address: Bankowa 14, 40-007 Katowice, Poland

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Contact details International Students Admissions Office E-mail: admission@us.edu.pl Phone: +48 32 359 20 71 Fax: +48 32 359 11 78 Address: Bankowa 12, 40-007 Katowice, Poland www.english.us.edu.pl

Visit our website by smartphone

Find us on Facebook and on VKontakte

at www.facebook.com/UniversityofSilesiainKatowice at www.vk.com/us_edu_pl

Published by: the Department of International Relations, University of Silesia in Katowice Texts by: the International Students Admissions Office, University of Silesia in Katowice Proofreading by: Kevin Hagarty Design by: Piotr Jakoweńko, www.ide.org.pl Photos by: Roman Łuszczki Printed by: Drukarnia Kolumb

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This publication was printed using 100% recycled paper.

Paper pulp was bleached using a chlorine-free process.

Contact details

International Students Admissions Office E-mail: admission@us.edu.pl Phone: +48 32Â 359 20 71 Fax: +48 32Â 359 11 78 Address: Bankowa 12, 40-007 Katowice, Poland www.english.us.edu.pl The Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library, Campus in Katowice