Alina's RUN-EU in Ireland
“We are one, we are RUN-EU”
Alina-Christina
International Hospitality Management student
Working in a group with students from all over Europe to come up with a solution in just a few days for a regional problem sounds like a massive challenge. For International Hospitality Management student Alina-Christina (22) it went surprisingly smoothly and was a rewarding experience.
“I’m part of the RUN-EU Student Advisory Board and started my journey with RUN-EU in autumn 2021 with a Short Advanced Programme about Food Waste in Ireland. The network organises these short programmes to bring students in the network together to work on solutions to regional problems. There’s a sense of community within the RUN-EU but during the five days of the Short Advanced Programme (SAP), it really felt that we had created a sense of being one. But it also links back to the topics we work on: current world problems which affect our future and that we can only tackle and solve together.”
Regional University Network-European University
RUN-EU challenges you to find real-life solutions to regional, national or international issues. You get to work with students, teachers and companies from all over Europe.
Different perspectives, single solution
“I went to Limerick in Ireland to work on the food waste challenge with students from all over Europe: Portugal, Ireland, Finland, Austria to name just a few. With the help of two coaches per group and inspiring lectures from people in research and working in the field, we had four days to come up with our focus point and solution. At first, I was worried that in addition to the time pressure we would face difficulties within the group, especially regarding communication, as we were such a diverse group. However, everything went smoothly and working together became an exchange of practices, knowledge, different perspectives and cultural insights. At the end of the week, my group and I were able to deliver a great solution, which we presented in front of the other groups. The winning group presented their solution for the food waste challenge during the RUN-EU general assembly in front of the groups from all the other challenges, experts and the RUN-EU stakeholders.”
Making a difference
“Looking back on the week, I realize how many new friends I made from all around the world and appreciate being able to network with experts, coaches and RUN-EU stakeholders. I learnt from the people I worked with and was able to expand my knowledge and skills related specifically to the topic but also in general. I am thankful I got the chance to take part in an SAP and make a small difference as well as a contribution towards our future!”
Find out more about International Hospitality Management and the opportunities it offers on the course website.
