On 28 January 2025, Iryna Ryshkova, a teacher of the Department of Management, Social Sciences, Humanities and Fundamental Disciplines, held a roundtable discussion on ‘Open world for youth. Benefits and challenges of academic mobility programmes’. The vent was organized and facilitated by Svitlana Stelmakh, a specialist of the Group of International Relations and Interuniversity Work.

During the event, the participants completed the following tasks: made a virtual trip to the Erasmus+ project in Poland; discussed the benefits and challenges of participating in international projects; received support in overcoming fears and shyness related to proactivity; learned useful resources for choosing an international projects; gained practical experience in finding and applying projects; improved their English language skills; and strengthened their motivation for international cooperation and self-development.

Highlights of the discussion:

Topic relevance: Participants discussed global opportunities and travel, reflecting on the prospects offered by academic mobility.

Experience of international projects: Watching a video from the Outdoor For All project became the basis for discussing the atmosphere of international exchanges and advice from participants.

Exchange of experience: Those who have already had experience of participating in international projects shared their stories and practical advice.

Information resources: Participants explored project search platforms and discussed how to use them effectively to participate in international programmes.

Practical part: During the workshop on writing project applications, participants received useful tips and learnt how to present themselves in international projects.

Participation in international programmes and youth exchanges contributes to the comprehensive development of the individual, opens up new professional opportunities, allowing a person to gain international experience, improve knowledge of foreign languages, expand professional contacts and obtain additional educational credits, which can serve as a basis for future internships. The career prospects offered by international programmes provide a competitive advantage in labour market, exposure to international companies, professional orientation, and increased employability. At the same time, there are certain challenges, including financial costs, adaptation stress, language barriers, bureaucratic difficulties and a disconnect with the local educational environment. Summarizing the results of the round table, participants were advised to actively explore international opportunities, prepare for cultural adaptation, develop communication skills and master foreign languages. The expected outcomes are increased motivation for international cooperation, broadened outlook, self-presentation skills and awareness of personal development prospects.

The event ended with inspiration and the formation of a specific action plan for each participant, as well as a call to constantly seek new opportunities for professional and personal growth.