KSU completed its participation in the international Mindrise camp in Poland

During the students' trip, Daria Domanchuk, a psychologist and social worker from the KSU socio-psychological service, accompanied them.

The camp program combined professional training, psychological recovery, cultural exchange, and an introduction to the experience of local self-government in Poland.

As part of the educational component, students participated in lectures, practical sessions, and professional discussions on psychology and art therapy, conducted by representatives from the Polytechnic Institute and Virginia State University — Professors Matthew Komelski and Victoria Fu. Participants will be able to apply the knowledge and practical skills gained in their future professional work with children and youth in Ukraine. A key component of the program was a meeting with the Mayor of Płock, Andrzej Pietrasim, as well as discussions with employees of the city council and the department of social policy, cooperation, and financial resources. Participants were interested in the development of local self-government, community formation, and the implementation of European standards.

Every day, the program began with morning activities — walks, martial arts, qigong, or yoga. Throughout the camp, students also attended interest-based thematic clubs, including creative workshops, board games, sports, dancing, karaoke, and a film club. The cultural and educational part included a trip to Toruń. Accompanied by a Ukrainian-speaking guide, participants explored the city's historic center, saw the Town Hall, the House Under the Star, sites related to Nicolaus Copernicus, the ruins of the Teutonic Castle, and the Leaning Tower.

A special experience was a workshop at the Old Toruń Bakery, where everyone personally created a traditional Toruń gingerbread. Participants also visited the «House of Memory» Museum, the Planetarium, and the Astronomical Observatory, learning about the history, culture, and scientific potential of Poland. The two weeks of the program served as a time for professional rebooting, learning, recovery, and exchange of experience with representatives from other higher education institutions in Ukraine. 

Kherson State University expresses its sincere gratitude to the program organizers — the «Idziemy na spacer» Association, the Municipality of Płock, the «Siepomaga» Foundation, and the Płock County — for organizing the camp, providing financial and logistical support, as well as ensuring accommodation, meals, insurance, and travel for the participants.

Special thanks to Daria Domanchuk for her professional guidance and support of the students throughout the entire program, as well as to the head of the KSU socio-psychological service, Iryna Shaposhnikova — for her professional supervision of this area, care for the mental health of students, and the development of psychological support practices at the university. 

We thank our students for their activity, responsibility, and worthy representation of Kherson State University in the international academic and professional environment. Ahead lies the implementation of the acquired practices of resilience, psychological recovery, and helping those who need it most today.

Camp participant Melania Kotova shared her impressions:

When I applied for this project, I didn't know what to expect. I went seeking new knowledge that I could use in my work, professional development, and new experiences. But now I can say with confidence — I received much more than I expected. This educational tour will remain in my memory forever. These were days filled with learning, new acquaintances, interesting events, excursions, sincere conversations, and incredible emotions. I met a large number of talented and interesting people — colleagues from different cities and countries. Each of them had their own unique experience, knowledge, and story. An incredible space was created for us, where everyone could express themselves, share their own ideas, and show their ways of coping with stress and supporting themselves and others. We had wonderful workshops, training, discussions, and many inspiring moments. And it's not just about international cooperation. It is much more — it is about people, mutual support, exchange of experience, new opportunities, and a sense of unity, even when borders and different languages separate us. Special thanks to our curator — Daria Sergiivna Domanchuk (Dasha Strogay). She was with us throughout the entire project, sincerely cared for every student, and looked after our comfort. After lectures, she always found time to explain the material in detail once more, help resolve difficult moments, and answer questions. One could turn to her not only regarding studies but also just to talk, share feelings, or seek advice. She always supported us, told us we were the best, believed in everyone, and cared for our interests. During this time, she became not just a curator to us, but a person who combined the roles of a mother, mentor, and friend. Special thanks to Kherson State University for constantly seeking opportunities for its students, opening new horizons, and helping us develop not only as professionals but also as individuals.