Student Handbook - University of Economics in Katowice
Transcription
Student Handbook - University of Economics in Katowice
Quick tips shopping go there help something extra better remember this how to... pay attention you will love it food this is banned definitely YES bad open 24 hours a day DRINKS good THIS BOOK BELONGS TO : CONTACT : FACULTY : YEAR : at your own risk MUSIC PARTY no, no, no CLIMATE students tips & thoughts Dormitory Hotel Contents University of Economics in Katowice ...07 Become our student ...12 Useful info ...18 University Campus ...26 After hours ...36 Poland: Your best choice ...42 Silesia: Positive energy ...48 Katowice: City of gardens ...51 Survival Polish ...54 Emergency calls ...55 Useful links ...55 Join us online ...57 04 05 Basic info University of Economics in Katowice remember this Name of the host institution: Uniwersytet Ekonomiczny w Katowicach University of Economics in Katowice Erasmus Institutional Code: PL KATOWIC02 Website: www.ue.katowice.pl www.english.ue.katowice.pl Admissions Office: Postal address: e-mail: admissions@ue.katowice.pl University of Economics in Katowice ul. 1 Maja 50 40-287 Katowice Poland Unit responsible for admissions and LLP/Erasmus: Biuro Programów i Współpracy Międzynarodowej International Relations Office Phone/Fax: + 48 32 2577 024 / + 48 32 2577 127 Contact e–mail: uek@ue.katowice.pl Information for incoming students: www.english.ue.katowice.pl Exchange application deadlines: June - for the winter semester / / whole academic year December - for the summer semester Semester periods: October – mid-February mid-February - end of June www.english.ue.katowice.pl 06 STUDY IN KATOWICE WHERE NEW IDEAS MEET OLD TRADITIONS University of Economics in Katowice General info ...09 Academic system ...10 ECTS credits ...10 Study offer in Polish ...10 Study offer in foreign languages ...10 International Relations Office ...11 International Promotion ...11 General info The University of Economics is perceived as a distinguished research and education center with a valuable contribution to the economic life of the region, as well as an important partner in the international area. Our professors play a significant role in the regional and national development by providing expertise, conducting research and working with the regional authorities and industry. Our students and alumni are prepared to operate successfully in an ever more international market and join the highly-qualified staff dynamically sought after by the most important players in the job market. The University delivers courses integrating the practical and theoretical aspects of business and marvellous opportunities for international work placement. Four faculties: Economics, Management, Finance and Insurance, and Information Technology and Communication offer a wide range of courses and are firmly linked to business practice. NEW IDEAS, OLD TRADITIONS: The University of Economics in Katowice was founded in 1937 and is the biggest and oldest business school in the region. Drawing on its long history and traditions, our university continues to grow and evolve implementing new ideas and diversification in its study offer AND participating in various projects. Scientific Information Centre and Academic Library (Polish acronym: CINiBA) is a joint project of the University of Silesia and the University of Economics in Katowice. The aim of the project is the construction and opening of a modern scientific library which will meet 21st century standards. www.ciniba.us.edu.pl Center for New Information Technologies (Polish acronym: CNTI) The aim of the project is expanding the university’s infrastructure with a modern, highly advanced ICT center to host the teaching and research base. It will facilitate the development of new teaching methods such as e-learning and enable our students to learn the skills necessary to get a head start in embarking on successful careers as professionals working in the information technology sector and as entrepreneurs. International focus Internationalization is one of the most prioritized and dynamic activities of the university. Whether it is participating in international research programmes, entering into alliances with leading universities in the EU and its external territories, being involved in international student and academic staff exchange programmes, or collaborating with countries in transition, University of Economics in Katowice is becoming more and more internationally oriented. Facts and figures: 176 foreign partner universities 270 foreign partner enterprises and other institutions 504 incoming and outgoing students 399 incoming and outgoing Staff Membership in international networks like EUA, EAIE, NAFSA etc. 08 09 Academic system Master in Consumer Relations Management Bachelor’s level = undergraduate (3 years) = 180 ECTS Master’s level = graduate (2 years) = 120 ECTS Doctoral level (4 years) or based on individual meetings with a supervisor The programme is provided by University of Economics in Katowice, l’Université de Haute Alsace in Colmar and University of Economics in Bucharest. Students recruited from three countries (France, Romania and Poland) study together: they spend the first semester in Colmar, second in Katowice and third in Bucharest. International Business (Bachelor’s and Master’s) ECTS credits ECTS = European Credit Transfer System. A full semester’s workload equals 30 ECTS. Exchange students are expected to take the minimum of 24 and maximum of 30 ECTS per semester. The courses at Bachelor’s (3 years) and Master’s (2 years) level are provided by the Faculty of Management and set in an international environment of both Polish and international students. The study programme focuses on issues related to international economic relations, business and labour law, marketing strategies in transnational corporations, management of European Union funds or interpersonal influence on consumer’s behaviour. More information is available on our website www.english.ue.katowice.pl Study offer in Polish The university offers full-time and part-time studies in Polish at every level at its four faculties. There are over 60 specializations offered at our 3 campuses: Katowice, Bielsko-Biała and Rybnik. The main fields of study include: Business Management Economics Entrepreneurship Finance and Accounting IT and Computer Science International Business Logistics For more infoRMATION on studies in Polish see www.ue.katowice.pl The International Relations Office is responsible for the coordination of international exchange programmes, initiating international cooperation agreements and managing international education projects. It deals with the admission and administration services for foreign students, both degree-seeking and exchange and liaises with Erasmus Student Network to provide support for international students at the university. The IRO also issues the necessary certificates (acceptance letters, confirmation of study period etc.) International relations office Building N, Rooms 328, 329, 330 ul. Adamskiego 7, KATOWICE Study offer in foreign languages Tel. : +48 32 2577 024 Fax : +48 32 2577 127 Office hours for students: Monday-Thursday : 12.00-15.00 Euroclasses bpiwm@ue.katowice.pl www.bpiwm.ue.katowice.pl This programme is offered to exchange students for one or max. 2 semesters. At the end of the semester students receive official certificates of study (no diploma). Students can choose from a wide range of courses offered by our four faculties: Economics, Finance & Insurance, Informatics & Communication, and Management. The courses comprising the offer are provided mainly in English, with some classes in French and German. www.english.ue.katowice.pl Joint Master’s Degree Programme in European Business and Finance The course is run jointly by three prestigious universities: Nottingham Trent University (UK), Brno University of Technology (The Czech Republic) and the University of Economics in Katowice (Poland). During the first two semesters, the students follow courses at the Faculty of Finance and Insurance in Katowice. The final part comprises one semester at Nottingham Trent University and a one-semester work placement. Graduates receive a Master’s diploma awarded by the three universities. ARIMA Joint Master’s Degree Programme in Quantitative Asset and Risk Management is run by the University of Applied Sciences BFI Vienna, Anglo-American University in Prague and University of Economics in Katowice. At the end of this 2-year master’s degree programme students receive diplomas of 3 universities. 10 International Relations International Promotion The International Promotion Team at New Media and Promotion Bureau is responsible for coordinating and initiating international events at the university, participation in fairs, preparation of promotional materials in foreign languages as well as social programmes and integration activities for international students. It moderates University web site in English, social media such as Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and blogs by international students. We invite all international students to apply for an internship in our team! International PROMOTION 40-287 Katowice, Poland Tel. :+48 32 2577 139 Building E, Room 503 ul. 1 Maja 50, KATOWICE zpz@ue.katowice.pl www.english.ue.katowice.pl 11 Become our student Admissions ...14 Tuition ...14 Academic calendar ...14 Accommodation ...15 Student card ...16 Mentor pick up ...16 Orientation week ...17 Contact sheet ...17 13 Admissions Accommodation You can study at the University of Economics in Katowice as: International students may choose one of the following options: An exchange student from one of our partner universities (under Erasmus, CEEPUS, bilateral agreement) – for 1 or 2 semesters with no tuition fees Dormitory in Ligota, ul. Franciszkańska 8 A freemover – for 1 or 2 semesters; tuition depends on the number of ECTS credits you take A degree-seeking student enrolled on a full study programme delivered in English or Polish – according to the Polish law, tuition fees may be waived depending on the candidate’s citizenship and legal status in Poland All international students wishing to study at our institution within EuroClasses (for max. two semesters) need to fill in the online application form. The form consists of a few steps requiring your personal information, data concerning your sending institution, reservation of accommodation and the choice of your study programme. The form is available during the recruitment periods, that is about one month before the official application deadlines: June (winter semester) and December (summer semester). winter semester FEBRUARY FranciszkaNSka 8 JANUARY JUNE till Tuition If you hold a non EU/EEA citizenship, you are required to pay the tuition fee. For details please contact the admissions office. Academic calendar The academic year is divided into two terms. The winter semester starts in October and lasts until the end of January when examination session starts. The summer semester starts in mid-February and lasts until the beginning of June. There are short breaks of about a fortnight at the end of December and during Easter. There is practically no teaching from mid-June to the end of September. Please check our website www.english.ue.katowice.pl for detailed information on admission requirements and procedures for each category of students as well as current academic calendar and deadlines. 14 Dormitory in Ligota, ulICA summer semesteR OCTOBER till The most popular choice of students – please apply early as the number of places is limited. The dormitory is situated about 20 minutes by bus (very good public transport connections) from the main university buildings, near a big student residential area consisting of dormitories of almost all higher education institutions in Katowice. The standard room is double (one bedroom and shared bathroom). Every room is equipped with basic items of furniture (beds, wardrobe, shelves, lamps, fridge). Bedclothes are provided and laundered regularly free of charge but you need to bring your own towels. There are a few common kitchens on each floor. Free Internet access is available in each room. Please check www.english.ue.katowice.pl for current rates and charges Student Hotel in Building P, ul. Pułaskiego 25 Our international students and foreign guests may be accommodated in the guest rooms of Building P in Pułaskiego Street in Katowice, which is only a 10 minutes’ walk from the university and 15 minutes’ from the city centre. What makes it even more convenient is the fact that the building comprises both accommodation and teaching facilities, with some lectures and seminars taking place right on the spot. The building was recently modernized and is fully accessible for people with physical disabilities. The rooms are spacious and cosy, with comfortable bathrooms and kitchen facilities, fully furnished and equipped with telephone, TV and stereo sets. Access to the Internet is also available. Renting a flat If you don’t feel like living in the student residential area you can always rent a flat on your own with a real estate agency (biuro nieruchomości). The rent depends on the apartment location – note that fully equipped flats are usually more expensive. You can also share a flat or room with other students – that will probably be much cheaper. 15 Student card Orientation week All students receive a student identity card (a photograph is needed to obtain the document) entitling them to a 50% discount on public transport in the city and a 37% discount on national railways (only when they are under 26). The card also entitles the student to access the university library, sports centres and other facilities as well as to discounted tickets to cinemas, theatres and museums. At the beginning of your stay in Katowice, everything will be new: the country, university and its facilities, the city, public transport, the Polish language and people. This sounds exciting and interesting, but some may find it also a little intimidating. To help you cope with the new situation, we organize an Orientation Week prior to the start of each semester. The highlight of this first week is the Global Village – a party during which representatives of each country present their typical, national foods, sweets, drinks, songs, dances etc. Please remember about this special evening and prepare something before your arrival in Katowice! www.esn.ue.katowice.pl MENTOR and pick up service For international students who are unfamiliar with Poland and our lifestyle, moving to Katowice can be a daunting experience. That’s why we offer the Mentor Program, which pairs international students with Polish students who provide the friendly face, helping hand, and first UEK friendship that can make a world of difference for new arrivals. The mentor will contact you by email even before your arrival and pick you up from the airport or railway station. They will help you get to your accommodation at the dormitory or your flat. You can be sure that you will receive help when the knowledge of Polish is required. Your mentor will be your “guardian angel” whenever needed, he/she will help you in everyday matters at the university or simply in Katowice. Typical „mentor” activities might include showing you around the campus, locating banks and grocery stores near the university, or chatting over a cup of coffee. 16 Contact sheet This is a brief overview of where to direct your questions regarding admissions and your student life. International Relations Office Barbara Centkowska - Director & Institutional Erasmus Coordinator Renata Lipczak Building N rooms 328, 329,330 Phone.: + 48 32 2577 024, fax: + 48 32 2577 127 e-mail: admissions@ue.katowice.pl > Exchange students coordinator > Dormitory applications > Admission of foreign citizens for full degree programmes Faculty of Finance and Insurance Assistant of the Academic Coordinator for Exchange Students Karolina Borys, Room 323 A Phone.: + 48 32 2577 747 e-mail: karolina.borys@ue.katowice.pl > Questions concerning study programmes and subjects > Class schedules and rooms > Study plan > Exams > Student ID card New Media and Promotion Bureau Head of International Promotion Edyta Lachowicz Santos, Room 503 E Phone: + 48 32 2577 139 e-mail: edyta.santos@ue.katowice.pl > Organizing integration events, conferences etc. > Blogs and Internet portals Facebook, Youtube, PicasaWeb etc. > University web site Manager of the Dormitory Anna Sochacka ul. Franciszkańska 8 40-708 Katowice (Ligota) Room 112 Zaścianek Phone: + 48 32 2577 222 > Questions concerning accommodation in the dormitory > Deposit > Registration in the dormitory Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Room 227/228 F Phone: 32 2577 218 Mobile: +48 886 185 593 e – mail: esn.katowice@esn.pl > Introduction to the institution and the student life > Orientation Week, trips and parties > Mentors 17 Useful info HEALTH COST OF LIVING Visa ...20 Health care and insurance ...20 Transport ...21 Taxi / Train / Plane ...21, 22 Money exchange ...21 Banks ...22 Post ...22 Pharmacy ...23 Electricity ...23 Employment ...23 Mobile phones ...24 Shopping ...24 Cost of living ...25 19 Visa Students who are citizens of the European Union or European Economic Area do not need a visa when entering Poland. However, for a stay exceeding 3 months, they should obtain a temporary residence permit at the Silesian Voivodeship Office. Your mentor will assist you to arrange the formalities. www.katowice.uw.gov.pl Students from a non-EU country are required to apply for a visa. It should be issued by a competent domestic authority before arrival in Poland. Schengen States issue the following types of uniform visas which entitle the holder to enter and stay in the Schengen territory: airport transit visa (A) – valid only for airport transit, does not entitle the holder to leave the transit zone of the airport short-stay visa (C) – valid for stays of no more than 90 days per period of 180 days Apart from uniform visas, Schengen States issue national long-stay visas (D) and residence permits. Holders of residence permits and national long-stay visas (D) issued by one of the Schengen States are allowed to travel within the Schengen area during a maximum OF three months in any half year. More info on the web site of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs www.msz.gov.pl Health care and insurance discounts for products and services. www.euro26.org Transport Public transport Public transport in Katowice and neighboring cities – buses and trams – is well organized and accessible 24 hours a day. It is very convenient to travel by trams, especially in rush hours as it is usually much faster than by other means of transport. Information about routes, timetables and fares is available at www.kzkgop.pl How to get to Katowice-Ligota The most convenient way of getting to Ligota from the city centre is to take one of the buses. Depending on the route, the journey takes between 20 and 40 minutes (off peak). Bus stops within a 5 minutes’ walk from dormitories are for example: Ligota Ośrodek Zdrowia, Ligota Poleska, Ligota Dom Kultury n/ż. You may also take a train to Katowice Ligota station. For the train timetables see www.pkp.com.pl Tickets and travelcards Upper Silesia is divided into zones (cities) with three different fare rates. Single journey tickets can be used both on buses and trams. To be able to use student tickets, you need to have a valid student card issued by our University. (Remember that you must always carry the student card with you in case you are asked to present it to the ticket inspector.) Remember to ‘punch’ your single trip ticket immediately after boarding the bus/tram. The ticket inspections are very frequent and the penalties vary from 45 to 260 PLN. Season tickets/travel cards: EU/EEA citizens Students from EU/EEA countries are entitled to free health care on presenting the European Health Insurance Card issued in their country (EHIC). The EHIC covers any medical treatment due to either an accident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA). It is crucial to remember that the free-of-charge health service is provided by the units which have relevant contracts with NFZ (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia – National Health Fund). If the documents mentioned earlier are unavailable, or if the medical care was not covered by the provider’s contract with NFZ, the patient will be charged with the cost of treatment. Apart from the public health care system, there is also a well-developed private sector. The costs of medical care may be reimbursed if a student has purchased a health insurance policy in his/her country before departure. A database of English-speaking doctors is available at our Admissions Office. NON-EU/EEA citizens The students from non-EU/EEA countries should purchase health insurance in their home country before departure. According to state health regulations, foreigners (except the EU/EEA citizens, see above) have to pay for medical consultation. The cost is then reimbursed by their health insurance company. Apart from the public medical care system there is also a well-developed private sector. More information can be found on the NFZ website: www.nfz.gov.pl. A database of Englishspeaking doctors is available at our Admissions Office. You can also buy the Euro26 Card which insures you in the event of an accident and gives you 20 Type Student fare monthly PLN 56 3-monthly valid for two or more cities PLN 141 3-monthly valid only in one city PLN120 Holiday season ticket (June and August) valid in two or more cities PLN 95 Taxi Taxis in Poland are relatively cheap. However, the prices differ depending on the time of the day/ night. It is advisable to ask about the price beforehand and see that the meter is switched on. Radio-taxi that can be ordered by phone (mobile) from anywhere is worth recommendation. Train Katowice has direct train connections with many cities in Poland and abroad, e.g. Vienna, Prague, Budapest etc. You can search for connections using the Polish Public Rail (PKP) route planner www.pkp.com.pl. The main railway station is located in the very centre of Katowice, just 5 minutes’ walk from Rynek (central square). It is also easy to catch a city bus or tram that will take you from the railway station to the university. 21 Plane There are two major airports located within 30 minutes’ drive from Katowice center: Katowice Pyrzowice Airport and Cracow Balice Airport, both offering numerous flight connections to destinations all over the world. www.katowice-airport.com www.krakowairport.pl/en/ Please note that you may also take advantage of the Ostrava Airport in the neighbouring Czech Republic – about 60 minutes’ drive from Katowice. www.airport-ostrava.cz/EN/ Typical trips for international students Katowice is a perfect starting point with good travel connections to various destinations in Poland as well as other European destinations. Most of our international students took advantage of our location and traveled to a number of cities such as Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Berlin, Vilnius etc. Money exchange Polish currency is called Złoty (PLN). If it is not possibile to buy the currency in your home country you can bring your home country currency with you and exchange it in a Money Exchange (kantor) or a bank. It is not advised to bring cheques with you as they are not popular and easy to cash here. Banks The credit and debit cards used worldwide are recognized and very popular in Poland. Please note that to open an account in Poland you will usually need your passport and other evidence of your origin. For more details ask your mentor. There is also an ATM at the university in building D, where you will be able to get your supply of złoties. Post Polish post offices are usually open from 8.00 to 19.00 on weekdays and from 8.00 to 14.00 on Saturdays. There is a small post office located very close to the university, just opposite building A. In case you need some extra services, you can go to the main post office in Pocztowa Street, which stays open 24h. Pharmacy The Polish name for a pharmacy is ‘Apteka.’ A lot of medicines are available over the counter but many can be purchased only with a doctor’s prescription. There are plenty of pharmacies in Katowice, several open 24/7, e.g. Apteka Pharmac, ul. 3 Maja 33 www.aptekadomowa.com Apteka Akademicka, ul. Tysiąclecia 41 www.apteka-akademicka.pl Electricity The electric current in Poland is 230 volts. Employment International students can work full-time throughout the year only if they have a residence permit. Foreigners may also apply for internships within Erasmus grant or AIESEC organization - at their home institution. You are also welcome to apply for an internship at our university. 22 23 Mobile phones Cost of living You can buy a sim card and use prepaid mobile services. Please make sure your phone does not have a simlock. Public phones can be found all over Katowice. For cheap international calls you can use pre-paid cards. Both telephone and pre-paid telephone cards can be purchased at a newsagent’s, post office or petrol station. Your monthly expenses will depend on your habits and needs. Here are some rough prices of products in Poland. 1 euro is approx. 4 zlotIES You can make a reverse charges call – the cost will be covered by the recipient. To do that you need to dial 19222, give the number you want to reach and then wait for the recipient’s approval. This service is provided on public phones and land lines of TP SA company. What? Price Dormitory rent 300-500 zł Flat rent (price per room in a bigger flat) 400- 600 zł Flat rent (one-room) 800-1500 zł Monthly ticket for the public transport 56 zł (with student ID card) Cinema ticket 15 zł (with student ID card) Lunch in a student canteen 8-10 zł Lunch in a pub 15- 20 zł Cup of coffee 3- 5 zł Beer 3,5 zł (shop) 6 zł (pub) Loaf of bread 3 zł Bottle of mineral water 2 zł Shopping Katowice offers a variety of options for all of those who wish to discover its shopping opportunities. The biggest shopping center is Silesia City Center (www.silesiacitycenter.com.pl). This is a perfect place for shopping, eating out and spending your leisure time. Most of the shops in Katowice center are located near the main train station in 3 Maja and Staromiejska Streets. Another shopping mall is 3 Stawy www.3stawy.pl located in Pułaskiego Street. The opening hours vary, but most shops are open between 10.00 am and 6.00 pm, while supermarkets and shopping malls work from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm. Please note that they are open on Saturdays and Sundays. When shopping for food you have three options: local food markets, corner shops or supermarkets. The fastest and most convenient are supermarkets, although a visit to a food market could be a nice experience and shopping in a corner shop can result in new acquaintances. To try exceptional products imported from all over the world, you can visit Alma delicatessen located in Kościuszki Street or Bomi in Roździeńskiego Street. In Katowice you may find most popular supermarkets: Auchan, Carrefour, Lidl, Real, Tesco. 24 monthly ticket 56 zŁ 25 University campus FIND US Library ...30 Computer facilities ...30 Disabled students ...30 Student canteen ...30 Sports activities ...32 Student organizations ...32 Integration events calendar ...34 27 29 Library The university library has the biggest collection of economics-related publications in Upper Silesia. It consists of the Main Library and of 8 departmental libraries. The collection includes books, periodicals and specialist publications on economics and related disciplines: management, marketing, finance, accounting, law, statistics, political sciences, sociology, psychology, computer science, mathematics etc. It also offers access to online databases in English. Each student should obtain a library card Foreign students may use the library collection in the reading rooms of the Main Library and departmental libraries, with the possibility of making photocopies of fragments of the books and periodicals. Location Main library and reading room, foreign press reading room: ul. Bogucicka 3, Building A Bookshop The university (building A) has its own small bookshop, where you can buy foreign literature, university textbooks and university merchandise. For more information check the website: www.english.ue.katowice.pl Computer facilities Students can use computers in the Computer Center located in building A. Additionally, there are computer rooms in Building P, building A and D and student dormitories in Ligota. There is also a possibility to connect your smart phone or laptop to the university WIFI network. Students have free access to wireless Internet on their computers. Disabled students Our University places great importance on providing equal services to all students. We successively adapt all of our buildings to the needs of the disabled. Buildings A, N and P are accessible to the needs of students in wheelchairs. Moreover, there are computer labs and work spaces in the main library equipped with software and hardware for sight-impaired and hearing-impaired individuals. The university hotel (building P) offers comfortable rooms for disabled students. For more information please contact your mentor. Student canteen The canteen located in building F is very popular with our students. The menu is varied so everyone can find something to suit their tastes. The meals are tasty and inexpensive; the price of a twocourse lunch will be about 2-2.5 EUR. 30 Sports activities Sport is an important aspect of student life. The university offers our students a big range of possibilities. The sports clubs you may join include: step nordic walking yoga pilates aerobics volleyball basketball football handball floorball skiing badminton All students can also use the gym, climbing wall, swimming pool and sauna located on the campus. Student organizations Students can join a number of youth organizations active at the university. These include: Student Parliament www.ps.ae.katowice.pl Independent Student Association (NZS) www.nzs.ae.katowice.pl Academic Sports Association (AZS) www.azs.ae.katowice.pl International Association of Students of Economic Sciences and Commerce (AIESEC) www.aiesec.org/poland/katowiceae Paneuropa Union Silesia www.paneuropa.eu.org Silesianie www.silesianie.pl European Centre for Integration and Development (ECID) www.ecid.org.pl Public Relations Student Organization (PROGRESS) www.progress.ae.katowice.pl Arkada Student Club www.arkada.ae.katowice.pl 32 33 Erasmus Student Network – their aim is to promote the social and personal integration of exchange students. They help international students by using the qualities of the local students, offering guidance, introducing them to the institution and the student life and ensure that they are given information and explanation about their studies. ESN helps all exchange students with regular life in Poland. They also coordinate the social and cultural activities, organizing trips to interesting destinations within the country, photo contests, international food fests and of course parties. www.esn.ue.katowice.pl Integration events calendar With tremendous support from ESN UE Katowice and other student organizations, the university looks after its international students also after classes. We organize many events and trips during the whole academic year. Month Event September Orientation Week (winter semester) October Trip to Kraków and Auschwitz November Erasmus Day Tram Party English Day December Trip to Wrocław Christmas Eve January Goodbye Party Trip to Zakopane University Day Ball of the University of Economics February Orientation Week (summer semester) Trip to Kraków and Auschwitz International Week March/ April Discover Europe (photo contest) April Erasmus Day April/May Silesia Days Extreme Economics Capsule race May Trip to the seaside Juwenalia Śląskie (the biggest student festival in Silesia) Wampiriada (event during which students give blood for sick people) May/June Goodbye party Erasmus Day This is an event which promotes the Erasmus Programme and the idea of international student exchange. Parades, exhibitions, meetings with representatives of the university staff and authorities, parties, barbecues and many other events, during which all Polish students can meet Erasmus students. Erasmus Day is a chance to get to know something about exchange programmes at the university of Economics and to ask foreign students about their countries. Silesia Days It is a cultural and educational conference for international students. The aim of the conference is to promote Silesia, its culture, history and people among international exchange students studying in Poland. To watch a movie from SD see www.youtube.pl/UEKatowice Extreme Economics It is the second part of Silesia Days, organized in the WPKiW park in Chorzów. During this event students see the green and fun part of Silesia. They ride a rollercoaster, go Zorbing, wall-climbing, try bungee running and gladiator fights among many other activities. To see how the students enjoyed the conference in previous years, visit our channel on PicasaWeb: WWW.picasaweb.google.com/www.ae.katowice.pl And our YouTube channel www.youtube.pl/UEKatowice Discover Europe This extraordinary photo contest is meant to select the best pictures showing Poland and other European countries, sent in by the students from all over Europe. The European level of the contest helps establish international connections among the participants, who, by submitting their work, present their own perception of the variety of cultures throughout Europe and contribute to countering stereotypes. The idea of the competition is to show, through photography, the beauty of Europe, its traditions and customs, as well as to share the experiences of traveling or of taking part in a student exchange programme. www.esn.ue.katowice.pl/discovereurope International Week During this week (mid-February) both Polish and international students will be able to participate in the courses conducted in English by foreign lecturers from all over the world and receive ECTS credits for each of them (3 ECTS per 15 lecture hours). Moreover, participating lecturers and students will be invited to take part in an International Fair where they can present their institution and country. It is organized by the Promotion and New Media Bureau in cooperation with Faculty of Informatics and Communication. www.intweek.ue.katowice.pl Orientation Week See page www.esn.ue.katowice.pl 34 35 After hours HAVE FUN! Pubc, cafes, restaurants ...38 Silesian cuisine ...38 Theatres and cinemas ...39 Opera and philharmonic ...39 Entertainment centers ...39 Galleries ...40 Sport ...40 Public holidays ...41 After hours During your stay in Katowice we will provide you with plenty of opportunities to visit major Polish cities, meet great people from all over the world and have lots of fun! 37 During your stay in Katowice we will provide you with plenty of opportunities to visit major Polish cities, meet great people from all over the world and have lots of fun! We will take you bowling, skating, skiing, swimming, hiking, sun-bathing, dancing, singing etc. and surely you will not have the time to get bored in Katowice. The best way to be kept informed about social life and advice on going-out for international student is to follow our Facebook profile. www.facebook.com/pages/Uniwersytet-Ekonomiczny-w-Katowicach Theatres and cinemas If you are a theatre lover you can visit the Stanisław Wyspiański Silesian Theatre located in Rynek (Central Square) in Katowice, the ‘Cogitatur’ theatre, the ‘Ateneum’ Puppet Theatre or the ‘Rozrywka’ Theatre (a music theatre located in Chorzów). Most of the plays, however, are staged in Polish, which you may find difficult. You won’t have such problems while going to Katowice cinemas (unless it is a Polish film). All foreign films with the exception of cartoons for children are shown in their original language versions, with Polish subtitles. Among Katowice’s cinemas there are: Pubs, cafes, restaurants Cinema City & IMAX, ul. Gliwicka 44, www.cinema-city.pl Helios, ul. Uniwersytecka 13, www.heliosnet.pl The choice of restaurants and cafés in Katowice is rather wide and varied. The café goers can choose between coffee shop chains like Costa or Coffee Heaven and plenty of independent cafés scattered around the city. When eating out, you can dine in a fast-food restaurant or choose one serving cuisine typical for different world regions or countries such as Asian, Italian, Spanish or Russian etc. The same variety applies to pubs, among which you can find music-themed ones, e. g. rock pubs or Irish pubs. Most pubs serve really good food. Since there is such a great choice of restaurants and pubs in the city, we have decided not to recommend any. Your fellow students will surely be a reliable source of information. Światowid, ul. 3 Maja 7 – member of Europa Cinemas Network and Arthouse Cinemas Network www.swiatowid.katowice.pl Rialto, ul. sw. Jana 24 www.rialto.katowice.pl And our YouTube channel www.youtube.pl/UEKatowice Opera and philharmonic We have also something for true music lovers. All of them can visit the Silesian Philharmonic. The acoustics of the concert hall are splendid and the aesthetic qualities of historic interiors make them a wonderful setting. The Silesian Opera in Bytom is unique due to its huge audience and special performances, such as ‘Meetings with opera’ organised for students. www.filharmoniaslaska.eu www.opera-slaska.pl Entertainment centres Punkt 44 Family Entertainment Centre in Katowice, ul. Gliwicka 44: cinema, bowling, darts, pool tables etc. www.cinema-city.pl RENOMA in Siemianowice Śląskie, ul. Wróblewskiego 37: bowling, pool tables, darts, foosball etc. www.pogodzinach.siemianowice.pl ORION in Sosnowiec, ul. Kantora Mirskiego 2c: bowling, pool tables, darts www.kregielnia.sosnowiec.pl Silesian cuisine The regional cuisine combines simplicity, variety and great flavours. It is really worth trying the most typical Silesian dishes. Immediately associated with Silesia are kluski śląskie (Silesian dumplings), round-shaped potato dumplings served with gravy and rolada z modrą kapustą (a beef-meat roll stuffed with pickled vegetables and ham, served with red cabbage). 38 AGORA, ul. Webera 6a, 41-902 Bytom www.plackosciuszki.pl Carting, Stawowa 4, 41–200 Sosnowiec www.gokarty.sosnowiec.pl 39 Galleries Fitness Clubs: Katowice is the city of numerous galleries, both public and private. Some of them organize exhibitions as well as sales. There are also some antique shops with decorative oriental and modern objects in Katowice. Get-Fit-Fitness, ul Uniwersytecka 13, Katowice, www.getfitfitness.pl Fitness Fun, ul Ceglana 67, Katowice, www.fitnessfun.pl Pure in “Agora”, ul. Webera 6a, 41-902 Bytom, www.agorabytom.pl Our students recommend the following art galleries: BWA Contemporary Art Gallery (free admission for students on Wednesdays) www.bwa.katowice.pl Art. Nova 2’ gallery (ul. Dworcowa 13) GCK (Plac Sejmu Śląskiego 2) www.gck.org.pl Marchołt Gallery (ul. Warszawska 37) www.klubmarcholt.pl Rondo Sztuki Gallery (Rondo im. Gen. Jerzego Ziętka 1) www.rondosztuki.pl Silesian Museum ( ul. W. Korfantego 3) www.muzeumslaskie.pl Indoor swimming pools : University of Economics in Katowice – free for UEK students University of Physical Education swimming pool, ul Francuska 70 AquaPark in Tarnowskie Góry, ul Korczaka 23, www.parkwodny.com.pl/eng/ AquaPark in Dąbrowa Górnicza, ul. Aleja Róż 1, www.nemo-wodnyswiat.pl Sport Katowice is a sport-oriented city which has hosted numerous national and international events such as EuroBasket 2009 Final Round or Women’s European Volleyball Championships. Following world trends, Katowice and its neighboring cities have started the tradition of organizing an annual Silesian Marathon, which attracts a lot of people from Poland and abroad. Opportunities to spend your time actively are abundant, including paintball, wall climbing, golf or horse riding. Public holidays Poles greatly enjoy celebrating all sorts of holidays. For the majority of Poles, the most important holidays in the calendar are Christmas and Easter. Below is the list of Polish bank holidays: Date Holiday 1st January 6th January Easter New Year’s Day Epiphany March or April, movable holiday, the classes are off from Maundy Thursday to the Tuesday after Easter Labour Day Constitution Day Corpus Christi Day, movable holiday, always on a Thursday Polish Army Day, Assumption of Mary Day All Saints’ Day Independence Day Christmas Day Boxing Day 1st May 3rd May June 15th August 1st November 11th November 25th December 26th December These are the only days when the shopping malls are closed. You can do some small shopping at the petrol station though. 40 During Christmas time classes are off from 23rd till 2nd 41 Poland: your best choice General info ...44 Religion ...44 Climate ...45 Clock shifts ...45 Interesting places ...45 Selected music festivals ...47 43 One of the most important reasons for studying abroad is having the opportunity to get to know a foreign culture and its customs, and to visit places that have played key role in shaping the unique character of a country or region. We will try to introduce you to the places that are worth visiting in Poland, so that you can feel and understand our culture and history. General info The Republic of Poland is located in Central Europe. It extends over the lowlands between the Carpathian Mountains and the Baltic Sea. Its surface area totals 312,628 km2. Poland is known for its beautiful lakes (e.g. Mazury Lakes), forests (numerous National Parks) and mountains (e.g. the Tatra mountains). The capital of Poland is Warsaw. Polish is the official language. The Polish nation belongs to the family of Slavic peoples. Poland has a population of about 40 million inhabitants. The structure of the nation is mostly uniform. However, there are a few minority groups which use their mother languages and develop their national cultures. Climate The climate in Poland is generally mild, although it is characterized by cold winters (even minus 20 Celsius) and hot summers (25-32 Celsius). The warmest area is Silesia; the region you will be staying in. Clock shifts Please make sure that on the last Sunday of October you adjust your clock one hour backwards (from 03:00 a.m. to 02:00 a.m) and on the last Sunday of March you adjust your clock one hour forwards (from 02:00 a.m. to 03:00 a.m.) Interesting places Warsaw (Warszawa) Warsaw, the capital, is located on the Vistula (Wisła) River. A city resounding with life, young at heart. We recommend seeing the most popular places like the Royal Castle, Royal Baths – Łazienki (a beautiful park in the city center), Belweder, National Museum with its gallery of ancient and medieval art, and the Palace of Science and Culture known as one of the most architecturally controversial buildings in Warsaw. www.e-warsaw.pl Membership IN international organizations 1945 United Nations 2004 European Union 1999 NATO 1995 WTO Gdańsk, Gdynia, Sopot (Trójmiasto – ‘tri-city’) Gdańsk is the maritime capital of Poland. The Gdańsk Shipyard is the cradle of the ‘Solidarity’ movement that led to the abolition of the former socialist system and initiated the development of a free and democratic state. It is also worth visiting the beautiful old town with its Renaissance Town Hall. Sopot, the smallest town of Trójmiasto, is the most fashionable Baltic resort and spa, with the longest wooden jetty in Europe. Gdynia is the youngest of the three cities, boasting commercial, passenger and navy harbours. If you like kite surfing do not miss the perfect spots at ‘Hel’ peninsula. www.guide.trojmiasto.pl Polish Nobel Prize in Literature laureates: Henryk Sienkiewicz (1905) WŁadysŁaw Reymont (1924) CzesŁaw MiŁosz (1980) WisŁawa Szymborska (1996) Mazury Some other famous Poles: Nicolaus Copernicus Marie Curie-SkŁodowska Fryderyk Chopin Krzysztof Penderecki Lech WaŁEsa Roman Polanski Andzej Wajda Krzysztof KieSlowski Adam MaŁysz Robert Kubica Religion Poles enjoy freedom of worship. Still, more than 90% of them belong to the Roman Catholic Church. Nevertheless, you can find churches and places of worship of other Christian or nonChristian denominations in our region, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Baptist Church, Methodist Church, Russian Orthodox Church, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, SeventhDay Adventist Church as well as Muslim communities and Jewish Synagogues. 44 The north-eastern part of our country is a dreamland of ‘a thousand lakes.’ One of favourite summer holiday destinations, especially for sailing Poles. It is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The most popular towns are Giżycko, Mikołajki, Augustów. www.masuria.eu Cracow (Kraków) Another famous city, cultural and intellectual center of Poland. It was the seat of Polish kings and the country’s capital from 11th to 17th century. We recommend visiting the Wawel Hill with the Royal Castle and Cathedral, with its magnificent gold-plated Zygmunt Chapel. City life focuses around the old town’s Market Square, the second largest square in Europe with its landmark: Cloth Hall (Sukiennice). Cracow is also well known for its thriving night life. We can assure you that this amazing city will leave an unforgettable impression on you. www.krakow.pl/en Auschwitz (Oświęcim) Another place worth visiting, not far from Katowice – the biggest German Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau. During the Second World War, it was a huge ‘factory’ of human annihilation where approx. 1.5 million people were exterminated. The Martyrdom Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage site. www.en.auschwitz.org.pl 45 Zakopane Winter capital of Poland, situated at the foot of the Tatra, the country’s highest mountain range. This town charms visitors with its landscape all year round. Excellent staging area for trekking, perfect place for snow adventure. it hosts the Ski Jumping World Cup competitions. It is just about 2h drive from Katowice. www.ezakopane.pl/poland Selected music festivals Music, especially good music, is what joins all, regardless of language or nationality. Below you can find a largely subjective list of what can be called crème de la crème of Polish festivals. Open’er Festival (beginning of July) www.opener.pl WOsp The Great Finale (Sunday in January) www.en.wosp.org.pl Przystanek Woodstock (summer) www.en.wosp.org.pl/woodstock_festival The International Chopin Piano Festival (August) www.chopin.festival.pl OFF Festival (August) www.off-festival.pl 46 47 Silesia - positive energy General info ...49 Interesting places ...49 Selected events ...50 General info The Silesia Region (Śląsk), located in the southern part of Poland, is in its own unique way a fascinating mixture of rich history, traditions and customs and freshly modern developments. Do not hesitate to visit the land of unspoiled nature, lively culture and varied landscape. Upper Silesia is a leader among the most economically advanced and urbanized regions in Poland and Central Europe. The Silesian Voivodeship (Województwo Śląskie) is rich in natural resources such as coal, methane as well as thermal and mineral waters. Excavation of the existing raw material base has led to the development of the largest industrial district in Poland. There are almost half a million of business entities and numerous organizations supporting business and competitiveness located here. You can also feel a vibrant student atmosphere as there are 200,000 students studying at over 50 Silesian higher education institutions. Interesting places - the Jurassic Landscape Park (Jurajski Park Narodowy) with its ‘Eagle Nests Trail’ (Szlak Orlich Gniazd) - Częstochowa, the location of Poland’s national sanctuary, the Jasna Góra monastery - Promnice, a charming hunting castle near Tychy – one of the most precious monuments of 19thcentury architecture - the Pszczyna Castle Museum with its unforgettable Mirror Chamber - the Historical Silver Mine in Tarnowskie Góry with the underground boat ride - „Królowa Luiza” historical coal mine in Zabrze - the Tyskie Brewing Museum - the Miniature Park (Świat Miniatur) in Inwałd www.parkminiatur.com - Wadowice – the birthplace of Pope John Paul II www.wck.wadowice.pl 49 Selected events THE RAWA BLUES INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL www.rawablues.com OFF Festival (beginning of August) www.off-festival.pl Metalmania (March) www.metalmind.pl/metalmania Mayday Festival (November) www.mayday.pL The GAUDE MATER International Festival of Sacred Music www.gaudemater.pl ARS CAMERALIS-Upper Silesian Art Festival www.cameralis.art.pl SILESIA MARATHON www.silesiamarathon.com THE BEERFEST (AUGUST, IN CHORZÓW) CONCERTS AT KOPALNIA GUIDO-ZABRZE 50 WPKiW – Park of Culture and Leisure General info Katowice is the capital of an agglomeration with 2.8 million inhabitants. It is one of the most rapidly developing Polish metropolises. Formerly the capital of Polish heavy industry, over the last decade it has been transformed into a modern municipality. Our city is also known for its rich cultural and academic life, with 14 higher education institutions located here. With its SPODEK (space ship) as a landmark it remains a place with modern infrastructure where trans–European routes link Poland with the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany and Ukraine. www.2016katowice.eu www.facebook.com/esk2016katowice Interesting places Nikiszowiec The miners’ housing estate in Nikiszowiec (built 1920-1924) is a place that best illustrates the Silesian culture. Commonly called ”Nikisz”, it is a unique example of a housing estate with its own bakery, shops, school and church. In the near future Nikiszowiec is going to obtain the status of a historical monument. Another interesting place is the gen. Jerzy Ziętek Park of Culture and Leisure in Chorzów – a 600 -hectare recreation facility founded in the 1960s. The park encompasses a Zoo, Fun Fair, the Silesian Stadium, Planetarium, swimming pool complex, water sports center, tennis courts, rose garden, the Technical Progress Centre, the Upper Silesia Ethnographic Park and plenty of restaurants and cafes. To get more information visit www.wpkiw.com.pl Sacred sites We recommend visiting the 16th-century wooden church complex in the Kościuszki Park. The list of places of worship worth seeing in Katowice includes Christ the Lord’s Cathedral built between 1927 and 1956, one of the most monumental buildings in Poland. You can also visit the oldest necropolis in Katowice – the Jewish Cemetery founded in 1868, the burial place of some noteworthy families in the history of Katowice. Museums Katowice museums can be proud of their outstanding exhibitions illustrating the character of our region. The Katowice History Museum and the Silesian Museum are certainly worth visiting. To get more details see www.muzeumslaskie.pl, www.mhk.katowice.pl Silesian Library Another attraction of the capital of Upper Silesia is the magnificent new seat of the Silesian Library, located in Plac Rady Europy (Council of Europe Square). This ‘library of the 21st century’ is considered to be one the most modern libraries in Europe. Modernist Architecture In the 1920s and 1930s Katowice was one of the only two sites in Poland (Gdynia being the other one) where, following the modernist credo: ”Form follows functions”, impressive modernist edi fices were erected. Within EU funded projects, electronic information stands and audio guides will be bought and located near 16 modernist locations in Katowice. www.katowicethecity.com/route-of-modernism-grant-aided For more information check the website: www.tourisminpoland.com 52 Survival Polish 54 Emergency calls help! English Polish Good morning/afternoon Good evening Good night Goodbye Hello/Hi/Bye How are you? Fine, thanks. And you? I am sorry/Excuse me/I beg your pardon Thank you Please (when asking) / Here you are (handing sth to someone) I don’t know No Yes (I am sorry but) I do not speak Polish Do you speak Polish/English? Do you understand? I am sorry but I do not understand Could you repeat? Can I have the bill, please? Can I have the menu, please? I am looking for the railway station /bus stop/bank What is your name? One ticket please How much does this cost? Where is...? supermarket library cinema restaurant church exchange swimming pool café shop museum pharmacy ATM, cash dispenser Dzień dobry Dobry wieczór Dobranoc Do widzenia Cześć Jak się masz? Dobrze, dziękuję. A ty? Przepraszam Dziękuję Proszę Nie wiem Nie Tak (Przepraszam, ale) nie mówię po polsku Czy mówisz po polsku/angielsku? Rozumiesz? Przepraszam, ale nie rozumiem Czy możesz powtórzyć? Proszę o rachunek Proszę o menu Szukam dworca /przystanku autobusowego/banku Jak się nazywasz? Jeden bilet proszę Ile to kosztuje? Gdzie jest...? supermarket biblioteka kino restauracja kościół kantor/wymiana walut basen kawiarnia sklep muzeum apteka bankomat Emergency Services : 112 (from mobile phones) Medical Emergency : 999 Fire Department : 998 Police Department : 997 City Information : 9491 Useful links www.english.ue.katowice.pl www.kzkgop.pl (BUS AND TRAMS) www.pkp.pl (TRAINS) www.katowice.eu/en/ www.youtube.pl/UEKatowice www.facebook.com/pages/Katowice-Poland/University-of-Economics-in-Katowice www.katowice.eu/pl/konkurs.htm www.silesia-online.com/ www.poland.gov.pl/ tak 55 International students about us KATHY, USA It was really a pleasure to study here. The study offer was really interesting and at a really high level. I enjoyed the direct relations we had with teachers and possibility to work in small international groups! I loved the Integration Week during which we got to know the region and city, especially Global Village – one of the greatest international events I ever took part in! - Hovey, China Marta, Spain 56 Join us online That was really great! I loved the intercultural experience! There were students from over 20 countries from all over the world in our group. A real melting pot! I will never forget the friends I made here. I had the time of my life! - Kathy, USA Hovey, CHINA I was Erasmus in Katowice in 2002, it was then that I understood how exciting it is to travel and get to know new cultures. I have stayed in a few countries afterwards but eventually I came back to Poland. I have lived in Katowice for 4 years now, have a great job in an international corporation and I really enjoy this fast developing and thriving city. - Marta, Spain 57 Did you know Notes The lyrics of the famous song New Year’s Day by U2 refer to the movement for solidarity led by Lech Wałęsa in Poland. U2 has played two concerts in Silesia (in 2005 and 2009) at the Stadion Śląski in Chorzów Did you know Carp is one of the most traditional Polish Christmas Eve dishes. Did you know All shopping centers in Poland are open 7 days a week. Did you know The inventor of the world’s first effective live polio vaccine was a Polish virologist and immunologist Hilary Koprowski. Did you know Since 15th November 2010 smoking is totally prohibited in public places in Poland. Did you know The University of Economics in Katowice is the oldest economic institution in the region. Did you know The two biggest beer producers in Poland are located in Silesia. Did you know Poland and Ukraine are the organizers of the 2012 UEFA European Football Championship. Did you know Polish actress Izabella Scorupco was the girl of James Bond in Golden Eye. Did you know Katowice is one of the 6 cities that qualified for the final of European Capital of Culture 2016. Did you know The establishment of the Polish state is often identified with the adoption of Christianity by the first ruler Mieszko I in 966. Did you know All Polish banknotes have Polish kings on them. Did you know ESN – Erasmus Student Network represents international students under the principle of “students helping students.” Did you know Modern-day strongman legend Mariusz Pudzianowski from Poland has won more World’s Strongest Man competitions than anyone else in history. 58 59 60 61 This guide has been produced with the financial assistance granted by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway by means of co-financing from the European Economic Area Financial Mechanism and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism as part of the Scholarship and Training Fund. However, the publication has been made under the sole responsibility of the publisher. Copyright by University of Economics in Katowice, Poland Texts by : Photos by : Magdalena Byrska Katarzyna Grela Edyta Lachowicz Santos Renata Lipczak Aleksander KaczmarEK Radosław Kazmierczak Edyta Lachowicz Santos DESIGNED by : WWW.SOKKA.pl