Graduation Ceremony 2024

The remarks from the Graduation Ceremony 2024

On October 25, 2024, a solemn Graduation Ceremony for the Master’s Graduates of the Faculty of Economics took place at the University of Gdansk

Master's diplomas were awarded to graduates from the following programs and specialisations:

Program: Business and Environmental Technology (an interdisciplinary program conducted with the Faculty of Chemistry )

Program: Economics

Economic Diagnosis and Business Functioning
E-commerce
Transport Economics and Logistics
Innovation in the Economy
Economic Policy and Entrepreneurship Strategy
Logistics and Mobility (specialisation in English)

Program: International Economic Relations

International Finance and Banking
Foreign Trade
International Managerial Economics
International Marketing Strategies
International Transport and Maritime Trade
International Business
International Business (specialisation in English)

The ceremony began with the Polish National Anthem and the traditional academic song "Gaudeamus Igitur," which dates from the 13th to 14th centuries.

The Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Dr hab. Wojciech Bizon, Associate Professor at UG, welcomed the guests, including Chancellor Dr hab. Aneta Oniszczuk-Jastrząbek, Associate Professor at UG, Deputy Deans, supervisors, nearly 150 graduates, numerous parents and loved ones of the graduates, and business community representatives.

The Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Dr hab. Wojciech Bizon, an Associate Professor at UG, also reflected on the beauty of studying, successfully passing exams, forming friendships, and the academic and professional paths forged by today's graduates.

The graduates then listened to an address by the Rector of the University of Gdańsk, Prof. dr hab. Piotr Stepnowski.

Rector Prof. dr hab. Piotr Stepnowski addressed the graduates, saying:

"I wish you only good moments in your newly chosen career paths. May you use the knowledge and qualifications acquired at the Faculty of Economics, University of Gdańsk, to the best of your abilities. May your professional journey be filled with promotions and the enhancement of your competencies, but above all, with an inexhaustible pleasure in what you do. Don’t forget your Alma Mater, come back to us, and support us as alumni. All the best!"

A highly ceremonial moment then arrived. Chancellor Professor hab. Aneta Oniszczuk-Jastrząbek and Dean Professor Wojciech Bizon awarded prizes to graduates with distinctions in their respective programs and specialisations.

The following graduates received letters of congratulations and gifts in recognition of their achievements in securing top positions and achieving the best grades in their specialisations:

MA Zuzanna Mazur, Business and Environmental Technology program, 1st Position, full-time second cycle, supervisors: Dr Joanna Hartenberger-Liszek, Dr Eng. Anna Gołąbiewska

MA Wiktoria Magnuszewska, Business and Environmental Technology program, 3rd Position, full-time second cycle, supervisors: Dr Joanna Hartenberger-Liszek, Dr Eng. Anna Gołąbiewska

MA Aleksandra Lisowska, Economics program, 1st Position and best in E-commerce specialization, full-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Olga Dębicka

MA Katarzyna Sokołowska, Economics program, 2nd Position, full-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Olga Dębicka

MA Oliwia Gierasimiuk, Economics program, 3rd Position and best in Logistics and Mobility specialization, full-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Leszek Reszka, Prof. UG

MA Kacper Kowalski, Economics program, 1st Position, part-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr hab. Beata Majecka, Prof. UG

MA Patryk Pliszczyński, Economics program, 2nd Position, part-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr hab. Ryszard Rolbiecki, Prof. UG

MA Kinga Dobrzyńska, International Economic Relations program, 1st Position and best in International Marketing Strategies specialisation, full-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Tomasz Czuba

MA Aleksander Ziółkowski, International Economic Relations program, 2nd Position and best in International Transport and Maritime Trade specialisation, full-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Janusz Dąbrowski

MA Kacper Urbanik, International Economic Relations program, 1st Position, part-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Aleksandra Borowicz

MA Mateusz Kuras, International Economic Relations program, 3rd Position, part-time second cycle, supervisor: Dr Monika Szmelter

Representatives of the following companies and institutions prepared special awards and gifts for the graduates in recognition of outstanding academic achievements:

EU Consult, ING Bank Śląski, London Stock Exchange Group Gdynia Site, LPP Logistics, Orlovski, Uni-Logistics, and Vetro Shipping.

We were very honoured that the representatives of institutions and businesses attended the ceremony:
Mr. Nuno Campos - Director of Non-Financial Risk at London Stock Exchange Group, Mr. Krzysztof Gutta - CEO of EU Consult, Mr. Marcin Mielewczyk - Corporate Client Advisor Team Manager, ING Bank Śląski, Mr. Jan Orłowski, and Mr. Jacek Tymiński - Honorary Consul of Moldova and Managing Director of Vetro Shipping.

Congratulatory letters and gifts were also awarded to master’s graduates for their outstanding social contributions to the academic community and sports achievements.

Master’s graduates Oliwia GIERASIMIUK, Jakub KRZYŻANIAK, and Dagmara PASZKOWSKA, representing the Scientific Circle of Logistics,
Master’s graduates Dominik BRONAKOWSKI and Maria KOKOĆ, representing the HaZet Scientific Circle,
Master’s graduate Łukasz DZIEKAN, representing the Student Business Club scientific circle,
Master’s graduates Wiktoria RODZEWICZ and Paulina SZRAM, representing the Electronic Business Scientific Circle,
Master’s graduate Weronika TRZECIAK, representing the Academic Tutoring Circle “Tutees”.

For sports achievements, congratulatory letters and gifts were awarded to:

Master’s graduate Katarzyna SOKOŁOWSKA, who achieved second place in the team general classification and second place in the university classification during the 2023/2024 Polish Academic Football Championships,
Master’s graduate Kamil JEREMICZ, who won third place individually in the university classification during the 2023/2024 Polish Academic Championships in Athletics.

The ceremony also honored graduates of the Faculty of Economics who passed all nine ACCA qualification exams during their studies as part of the ACCA specialisation module.

The students awarded were: MA Marek GŁOWACKI, MA Kamil HOMSKI, MA Pola KŁOSIŃSKA, MA Artur MALISZEWSKI, MA Szymon MIKSA, MA Yuliia MELNYK, MA Kamila PTASIŃSKA, MA Denys SOBOL.

After the awards and distinctions were presented, Dr Magdalena Markiewicz, the Deputy Dean for development and socioeconomic relations, introduced speeches from employer representatives.

Mr Krzysztof Gutta, CEO of EU Consult, remarked that this was a symbolic moment for him, as he once again found himself at the university where he had once received his diploma. Speaking to the Faculty of Economics graduates, he began with reflections on his experience as a student years ago. He shared how the knowledge he gained, along with his commitment and determination, laid the foundations for his career. He also noted how industries have evolved, with new technologies and market changes shaping today’s professional landscape.

Referring to career building, the CEO emphasised the importance of passion, curiosity, adaptability, resilience, and perseverance in difficult times. He highlighted that the graduates leave a very good faculty and an excellent university, providing them with a strong foundation in the job market. He encouraged the graduates to continue their development, especially given the rapid pace of change in the world, and reminded them that success is not only about talent and hard work but also about the ability to collaborate with others and cultivate relationships in a professional environment.

Nuno Campos, Director of Non-Financial Risk at the London Stock Exchange Group, speaking at the graduation ceremony, warmly congratulated the graduates on earning their university diplomas, acknowledging this special day as the culmination of many years of study. Mr. Campos discussed young people's challenges, emphasising adaptability, commitment to continuous learning, interpersonal skills, and teamwork as crucial — experiences gained during university studies.

Mr. Campos highlighted that in managing risk within a global organisation, it is essential not only to understand the industry but also to have the ability to appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives. He noted that diversity — among students, graduates, and employees alike — enriches an organisation, helping it to anticipate risks better and develop innovative solutions. He also referred to the role of the new graduates, emphasising their impact on shaping a sustainable and responsible economy. He encouraged the graduates to move forward with passion, openness, and a readiness to learn from others.

Representing the graduates, MA Oliwia Gierasimiuk (Economics, Logistics and Mobility) and MA Katarzyna Sokołowska (Economics, E-commerce) shared their memories and aspirations. They acknowledged the challenges, especially the pandemic and its impact on their studies. They expressed gratitude to lecturers and family members for their support and motivation. They celebrated the friendships and memories forged during their studies, which have become a foundation for their professional and personal lives.

The Deputy Dean then invited a representative of the graduates to take the floor.

Ms. Oliwia Gierasimiuk (field of study: Economics, specialization: Logistics and Mobility):

„We stand here today as graduates of the Faculty of Economics of the University of Gdańsk. This ceremonial gala culminates one of the most important chapters in our lives.

Our time as students was an extraordinary period full of challenges and successes, which not only broadened our knowledge but also strengthened our determination and ability to overcome difficulties. Together, we experienced unforgettable moments that allowed us to establish new friendships and build valuable relationships.

We want to thank our lecturers and supervisors for their shared knowledge and support in pursuing our goals. We are also grateful to our loved ones who motivated us and celebrated our achievements with us.

As graduates, we are entering a new stage of life, opening up several new opportunities. We are entering the professional world, where we can use the skills acquired in practice.

I wish us courage in making decisions and striving to fulfil our dreams. Life will bring many challenges, but our choices and trials will shape our future. Let our ambitions drive action; passion and determination will help us fulfil our aspirations. I wish us success not only in our careers but also in our personal lives.

Ms. Katarzyna Sokołowska, M.A. (field of study: Economics, specialization: E-commerce)

"When I stand here before you today on this special day, I feel a great joy on one hand and a slight apprehension on the other; summing up five years in just a few minutes is quite a challenge! Over these years at the Faculty of Economics at the University of Gdańsk, our journey has been filled with challenges, both academic and those entirely unexpected."

Ms. Katarzyna Sokołowska, in her speech, highlighted key events that shaped her time at the University of Gdańsk – from the challenges of the pandemic and the difficulties related to the war in Ukraine, to the joy of building lasting friendships and gaining experiences outside of lecture halls. She reminded everyone of the shared struggles and the support of the academic community, which helped overcome uncertainties.

"Even though the pandemic and the period of online learning was a rather uncertain time, in my view, all these challenges proved that together we can handle the toughest times. And our growth wasn’t only academic but also technological! (...) The war in Ukraine also impacted us – our sense of security. Many of us began to reflect on our future during this time. But despite this, we managed. Within our student community, we could help each other and count on one another – both at the university and beyond."

As she said, "Relationships are more than just time spent in lectures. They are friendships we've built for years to come. I'm sure that for many of us, these will last and provide support not only in our careers but also in our everyday lives."

She also shared her joy over sports achievements as an athlete with AZS UG, emphasizing how important the support from the university and the team was: "For me personally, university was also a time when I could pursue my passion for sports. As a player in the AZS UG football team, I had the pleasure of representing our university on the field – both indoor and outdoor – and at the last Polish Academic Championships, we won the runner-up title! It was worth training late at night and sprinting through the hallways between classes and practices. I think the support of the University of Gdańsk, our coach, and all the girls was key to this success. It's moments like these that remind me that university is a fantastic time to fulfill one’s passions, not just academic ones. I’m glad I could take advantage of the opportunities our university provided me."

In conclusion, she expressed gratitude to the lecturers for their patience and immense knowledge, and to her loved ones and fellow students for the motivation they provided during moments of doubt and discouragement.

The most emotional point of the meeting was the presentation of graduation diplomas to all graduates of individual fields and specialisations.

The graduates received diplomas and congratulations from the Dean, Prof. Wojciech Bizon, in the presence of its Promoters.

The graduates, along with the supervisors of individual seminars in the fields of Business and Environmental Technology, Economics, and International Economic Relations, were invited by Deputy Dean Dr Leszek Reszka, UG Professor, and Deputy Dean Dr Magdalena Markiewicz.

After all diplomas and congratulations were presented, Deputy Dean Dr Magdalena Markiewicz asked the graduates to ceremonially move the tassel on their academic caps to the left side, symbolising the completion of their studies and the moment of receiving their degrees.

After presenting all the diplomas and congratulations, the Dean of the Faculty of Economics thanked all guests for coming to the 2024 Graduation Ceremony and then asked them to listen to the European Union Anthem.

The meeting ended traditionally with a session of commemorative photos of graduates of all fields and specialisations, conversations and memories of the years spent at the university.

Congratulations to the graduates
of the Faculty of Economics of the University of Gdańsk
on completing studies at our Faculty!

We wish you success in your professional and personal life!

We invite you to watch the photos and videos from this unforgettable celebration and read the reports on the Faculty Instagram!

Faculty of Economics (@ekonomug) | Instagram profile

Video from the Alumni Gala on October 25, 2024 (available soon)