Kat Lytkowski is currently majoring in STIA at Georgetown University in the US. STIA stands for “Science, Technology and International Affairs” and is a new major that “applies cutting-edge science to the world’s most pressing political, social and ethical issues.” It takes into account the multiple forces affecting international affairs today – from social media and cyber security to epidemiology.
For Kat, studying abroad with the Security and Society in the Information Age program with SRAS was a natural fit. Security and Society also takes a wide angle and holistic view of security – from not just a military standpoint but also studying domestic terrorism, economic security, the importance of maintaining a healthy population and a well-integrated society, and more.
In the 40-minute podcast conversation below, Kat and SRAS Director Renee Stillings discuss modern security, Europe’s place in the world, Kat’s overall experience studying in Poland, and what Poland has to offer to those interested in studying security abroad.
Studying Security in Warsaw, Poland
Why study security abroad in Poland? Kat and Renee focus most of their conversation on this topic.
Starting with a broad view, they discuss the ability to gauge firsthand Europe’s evolving position on the world stage. Will it continue to be part of a “collective West” or will seek a more independent role based on its own interests? How do members of the EU see their position within the union and in global politics at large? These are changing and fundamental questions to the current world order.
More specifically on studying in Warsaw, Kat praises the city’s friendly local youth culture, affordability, and its wonderfully diverse and modern food scene. Knowledge of English is widespread, meaning that there is little language barrier. Living in the city, almost entirely rebuilt after WWII, also offers interesting perspectives for anyone interested in city planning as the placement of nearly everything was carefully thought out and connected by extensive public transportation.
Much of the conversation is focused specifically on studying at Collegium Civitas, where SRAS’ Security and Society in the Information Age program is held. The institution is large enough to offer a range of incredible professors teaching diverse subjects and yet small enough that each student’s research interests can be fostered and discussed. Collegium has also specifically built up a diverse student body with representation from across Africa, Eurasia and the Americas. Discussions of global security are truly global, with multiple perspectives offered from the stakeholders themselves.
These are just some of the major points covered in the podcast offered above.
Photos from Study Abroad in Warsaw, Poland
