On February 21, 2025, a unique networking event took place at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York, organized by the Polish Youth Association (PSM). The event was aimed at high school students from Polish community schools. It gathered over 180 students who had the opportunity to listen to lectures by outstanding speakers in the consulate’s salons. These speakers shared their experiences and insights on education, career development, and finance.
The meeting was opened by the Consul General of the Republic of Poland, who welcomed the gathered guests and emphasized the importance of building the Polish community and expanding connections.
The first speaker was Paweł Benedykciński, President of the Polish-American Business Club and a Wall Street investor. During his presentation, he discussed key aspects of financial planning at a young age. He introduced strategies for smart saving, effective earning, and investing money. Participants had the opportunity to take part in a Q&A session with Paweł, where they asked questions and expanded their knowledge on important financial topics.
Another key moment of the event was the speech of Senior Cadet Corporal Kacper Woźny, a student at the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point. As a Polish military representative delegated by the Ministry of National Defense to West Point, he not only serves as a cadet but also actively promotes the Polish language and culture. He is a representative of the Polish Language Forum at West Point Military Academy, where he works to integrate Polish and American cadets. In his speech, he shared his extraordinary journey and path to one of the most challenging military academies in the world. The event participants had the opportunity to learn about daily life at West Point, the challenges of the application process, and the obstacles Kacper had to overcome on his path to success.
During the networking break, young participants had the opportunity to engage in conversations with the panelists, ask questions, gain valuable knowledge, share experiences, and build new connections that will help them further develop their personal brands. This break was designed to give young Poles a chance to broaden their horizons and gain inspiration for their future growth.
The final part of the event was a discussion panel led by students from prestigious American universities:
Julia Wojtkowski, a student at Yale University and President of the Yale Polish Student Society.
Marta Rzeszutko, a student at Princeton University and Event Chair at the Princeton Polish Society.
Caroline Liszewski, a student at the University of Scranton, Head of Student Clubs at PSM, and Chair of the Polish Student Club “PIAST” at the University of Scranton.
The panel speakers focused on the challenges of the application process for top universities in the United States. Each participant shared their personal experiences and valuable advice on how to effectively prepare for college applications and write a unique personal statement that creatively highlights their Polish heritage. The panelists also discussed how to build a strong candidate profile by engaging in social and academic initiatives and developing passions that set applicants apart from others.
At the end of the event, Jakub Staniewski, the president of the Polish Youth Association, took the floor to summarize the entire event and thank the participants for their willingness to take part in this inspiring and educational gathering. He emphasized that the meeting provided young Poles with valuable knowledge and inspiration to take on new challenges.
Amelia Piwowarczyk
PHOTO GALLERY
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