An under-appreciated country brimming with history, culture and charm – if you’re considering going abroad, whether to travel, study or work, take a closer look at what Poland has to offer:
Careers
Being the most successful post-communist Central European state, Poland has many unprecedented opportunities for foreign students. With the stunning rate of economic development creating new employment niches, it requires a more and more professional workforce. Polish companies often undertake foreign contracts and actively seek foreigners who would assist them in the process, whether in simple translations or delegations abroad.
In return they offer attractive salaries, flexible work plans and opportunities for travel. In conjunction with the lower costs of living in Poland, such an offer is more than attractive for Westerners. In addition, the Polish business sector thirsts for innovation, having being named the “Major European Tech Startup Hub”.[1] Such undertakings are heavily subsidised and eagerly joined by local students.
Education
Polish universities, led by the Jagiellonian University and the University of Warsaw, are unchallenged in the region and among the most recognised in Europe. Stimulated by the growing proportion of foreign students, these universities seek new and capable foreign academics to challenge the position of Western universities and increase the Polish presence in the global academic environment.
Such ambitions lead to many courses being offered in English and a number of foreign exchange opportunities being available to the students. With masters degree the most common (bachelor courses alone are uncommon in Poland and continental Europe), it would consist of excellent preparation for a globalised world. Furthermore, it is still fairly uncommon for Westerners to study in Central Europe. Choosing to do so would hence be a valuable asset for your career, proving that you are an ambitious, risk-taking individual who is willing to use the new global niches for your benefit. The tuition fees for courses taught in English are significantly lower, averaging on €2000 – 3000 annually.[2]
Investments
Poland’s GDP has been steadily increasing at a rate of approximately 3% annually throughout the last decade.[3] Furthermore, the country was the only in Europe not to suffer from the consequences of the 2008 financial crisis.[4] In terms of investments, it is a proof of steady profits and low risk of losses, in contrary to the vulnerability of Western states. Facing political changes, like Brexit in the UK, such stability is necessary for safe investments.
Numerous companies seeking safe havens are continuously moving their businesses and workforce to countries like Poland. This economic increase also translates to the growth of the middle class who would be the primary clients of the services offered by the graduates of universities like Nottingham. So inquiring into Poland will not only provide financial opportunities for you, but also give a chance for you to be sponsored by someone else.
Tourism
Although Poland is usually overlooked as a travel destination, it has become one of the top 20 most visited countries in the world. Lonely Planet also designated Poland as 7th in the Top Ten Countries to Visit in 2016.[5] Each city in Poland has a unique feel and social culture.
Love the seaside? Why not go on a holiday to Gdansk and experience the beauty of the Baltic Sea?
If you’re not a seaside lover, head to the Tatra Mountains in the South to see the highest mountain range in the Carpathian Mountains which will definitely take your breath away.
Cities like Warsaw and Krakow will also leave you feeling speechless due to their historical magnificence. Be ready to see a number of overwhelming historic buildings, palaces, as well as plenty of gardens, parks and forests.[6]
Flights to Poland start at about £20 one way, but if you’re lucky enough you could get them for as little as £10, so keep an eye on deals and promotions! Accommodation prices start from £10 a night and meals in decent restaurants come up to about £15 per person.
Aleksander Kalisz, President of the Polish Society
Patrycja Kempska, Social Secretary
Maciej Kawecki, Treasurer
https://www.su.nottingham.ac.uk/societies/society/polish/
Featured image courtesy of ‘Kamil Porembi?ski’ via Flickr. License here.
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[1] Coleman A, ‘Poland On Track To Becoming A Major European Tech Startup Hub’ (Forbes, 20 May 2016) <http://www.forbes.com/sites/alisoncoleman/2016/05/20/poland-on-track-to-becoming-a-major-european-tech-startup-hub/#1b433895431b> accessed: 17.02.2017.
[2] Study in Poland, ‘Questions & Answers’ (Study in Poland, 2014) <http://www.studyinpoland.pl/en/index.php/education-in-poland/19-questionsanswers> accessed: 20.02.2017.
[3] Trading Economics, ‘Poland GDP Annual Growth Rate’ (Trading Economics, 2017) <http://www.tradingeconomics.com/poland/gdp-growth-annual> accessed: 20.02.2017.
[4] Sheets C A, ‘The East European Miracle: How Did Poland Avoid The Global Recession?’ (International Business Times, 29 September 2017) <http://www.ibtimes.com/east-european-miracle-how-did-poland-avoid-global-recession-795799> accessed: 20.02.2017.
[5] Baker M, ‘Why I Love Poland’ (Lonely Planet, 2017) <https://www.lonelyplanet.com/poland> accessed: 21.02.2017.
[6] Noble M, ‘Super Poland: 7 Reasons to Visit Poland Now’ (MIR, 20 April 2016) <http://www.mircorp.com/super-poland-7-reasons-to-visit-poland-now/> accessed: 21.02.2017.
