Students in action against societal issues: Quynh's expedition week in Vienna
During a week-long expedition trip to Vienna, a group of students dedicated themselves to devising a solution to reduce the problems of poverty and inequality in the city. Quynh Pham, a dedicated student from the Data Science and Society study, delved into the ENGAGE.EU Expedition Week with her team 'FewbutGood'. From captivating icebreakers to intense workshops, she discovered how to utilize practical tools and realize groundbreaking ideas that make a difference. ‘’During this week, I immersed myself in a comprehensive learning experience focused on poverty, its detection, relief measures, and the complex landscape of social housing.''
Study abroad with ENGAGE.EU
As a Tilburg University student, you can study online at renowned universities across Europe within the ENGAGE.EU European University Alliance. ENGAGE.EU is an alliance of leading European universities in business, economics, and the social sciences, which aims to provide European citizens with the set of skills and competencies needed to tackle significant societal challenges. Through ENGAGE.EU, you become part of an online, international classroom and exchange ideas with students from different countries alongside your studies in Tilburg.
"Comprising students from diverse disciplines in other universities, we aimed to tackle significant societal issues, particularly poverty and inequality in Vienna. Each morning, we engaged in various workshops, which were integral in shaping our approach to the challenge. Further sessions introduced us to practical tools such as the Value Proposition Canvas and methodologies like Design Thinking to innovate and refine our solutions effectively. Our idea was the 'Human Library’, aimed at reducing the social stigma of poverty, competing against four other groups.''
Valuable lessons learned
‘’This multi-dimensional exploration equipped me with new skills, deepened my knowledge, and provided valuable insights into social issues and their management through public and non-profit sectors. I gained insights into poverty indicators such as the 'At Risk of Poverty' (AROP) rate and 'Severe Material and Social Deprivation' (SMSD), revealing socio-economic disparities. Exploring Vienna's Social Housing policies and structures provided perspective on supporting low-income residents and reducing ghettoization. I gained valuable lessons from this period: my enhanced collaboration and practical skills, improved language proficiency and networking opportunities.’’
Challenges and essential skills
"’The most challenging aspect of the program was going from diverse ideas to a unified group solution that effectively addressed the complex issue of poverty without oversimplifying the problem. Through this week I am inspired to addressing societal challenges and fostering collaboration across universities. I am focusing on developing practical solutions and promoting inclusivity, and aim to advocate for projects at Tilburg University that address underrepresented communities, fostering an empathetic and inclusive approach.''
Tips for maximizing your experience
1. Be open to different perspectives
‘’ENGAGE.EU is all about bringing students from various backgrounds together. Embrace the diversity of thought and expertise. The more open you are to learning from others whose experiences and skills differ from your own, the more comprehensive and innovative your solutions will be.’’
2. Build relationships
‘’Networking is a key component of the ENGAGE.EU experience. Connect with peers, professors, and professionals. These relationships can provide academic support, career advice, and professional opportunities.’’
3. Make use of available resources
‘’ENGAGE.EU programs often provide access to a wealth of resources, including expert lectures, workshops, and direct interactions with NGOs and other organizations. Utilize these resources to enhance your understanding and output.’’
4. Document your journey
‘’Keep a journal or blog about your experiences. Reflecting on your challenges and successes will not only enhance your learning but can also be a great way to share your journey with others and to inform your future self.’’
5. Have fun and explore
‘’While the work is important, don’t forget to enjoy your time, explore the city you’re in, and make lasting memories with new friends!’’
The ENGAGE.EU initiative has inspired me to contribute to social engagement, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and apply academic knowledge practically at Tilburg University. This experience will inform my ongoing academic pursuits and my future career in data science and social research.
Quyhn Pham, student Data Science and Society