First meeting of ESN ATHENA in Lublin

From 10 to 12 May 2023, a team of representatives from the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Siegen and ATHENA European University participated on behalf of the University of Siegen in the ESN ATHENA training and inauguration event at Maria Curie Skłodowska University in Lublin, Poland.

A total of eight ESN sections from ATHENA partner universities came together to network and establish ESN ATHENA. Students from the Hellenic Mediterranean University (Crete), Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, the Polytechnic Institute of Porto, the University of Maribor, the University of Orléans, the University of Vigo, the Technical Gediminas University of Vilnius and the University of Siegen learned more about ATHENA European University and how the cooperation between the Erasmus Student Network and ATHENA can look like.

During the training days, there were various workshops for and by students for personal and professional development, for example on the topics of "Graphic Design" or "Team Management". ATHENA organised panel discussions, strategic planning sessions, and time for personal exchange. The Maria Curie-Skłodowska University provided a well-rounded programme, with city rallies, a joint barbecue, and an excursion to the Botanical Garden.

On the last day of the event, there were presentations by the European Commission, conferences with ESN International, and finally the signing of the launch of ESN ATHENA by all eight partner sections. As a result, the ATHENA partner universities now have a common ESN section, the first among the European University alliances, for further networking of students for more opportunities and accessibility.  

A report by Ruth Schäfer (Vice President of ESN Siegen).