Students from the Faculty of Organization and Informatics presented their research at the 12th Student Research Symposium in the USA
This year's 12th Student's Symposium on Research and Intercultural learning was held from July 10 to July 21th, 2024 at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio, Indiana State University in Terre Haute, IN and DePaul University Chicago.
This project started 2010 at the Faculty of Organization and Informatics University of Zagreb and University of Central Florida, FL, USA. Through this project approximately 200 mobilities of students, faculty and staff were realized from Croatia to the United States, and vice versa.
Project leaders are full Prof. Violeta Vidaček Hainš, Ph.D. since 2010 and Glorija Galić, president of the Student Union (2024), full.prof. Igor Balaban, Ph.D. is member of the projet team 2024.
FOI students Maja Vučković. Jana Kušar, Ana Novak and Eugen Petošić are FOI representatives for this year.
Prof. Violeta Vidaček Hainš presented online the cross-cultural communication experiences, prof. Igor Balaban presented the e learning FOI platform, while students presented their research linked to human rights, volunteering and communication network in students’ organizations.
Acknowledgments:
University of Cincinnati (McNair TRIO program) - Director McNair Program Dr. Cheri Westmorelamd, EdD., Cherity Winburn, assistant director
Director of Strategic Partnerships Jenni Kim Sutmoller
Clermont College University of Cincinnati - Clermont College UC - Dean dr. Jeffrey C. Bauer, PhD; Prof. dr. sc. Victoria S. Appatova, PhD;
Indiana State University – dean dr. Terry Daugherty, prof.dr. Christopher Olesen, provost, dr. Chris McGrew, prof.dr. Aruna Chandra, Karen Dakić
De Paul University Chicago, IL – dr. Luciano Raquel Berardi
University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL – Michael Aldarondo Jeffries , Director AAP , Raquel Toro – Espinal, Assistant director AAP McNair UCF
Faculty of Organization and Informatics management board
Student Union of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics and Student Union of the University of Zagreb
Student Centre Varaždin
International Relations Office of FOI and International Relations Office University of Zagreb
Student Support and Career Development Centre FOI,
Varaždin county,
City of Varaždin,
… as well as everybody who contributed and participated at this project. Looking forward to the 13rh Symposium that will be held 2025 in Croatia
Maja Vučković
July 10, 2024 (Wednesday):
Wednesday, the travel day. It was an early flight for us so we were at the Airport Franjo Tuđman at 4:00 am. Besides waking up early, all five of us were excited for upcoming adventures. First flight was to Amsterdam, NE. After that, we were mentally preparing ourselves for a long flight to Minneapolis. Flight was eight hours long, but we were watching movies and eating food, so it wasnt so long for us. After a long que at the U.S Customs and Border protection we were finally on American ground. After a delayed flight for Cincinnati, OH, because of the weather, we finally arrived at Campus Recreation Hall. It was a long day for us so we went to bed straight after so we would be ready for our upcoming Student symposium.
July 11, 2024 (Thursday):
The first day of the student symposium started with an early morning walk around the campus because we all woke up earlier due to the time difference. By walking through the University of Cincinnati Campus, we got to know some of the facilities on campus. The campus itself is extremely large, many buildings are under construction and as other students told us, new buildings are constantly being built. We spent most of the day presenting ours and listening to others presentations of research conducted for the purpose of this student symposium. Research topics covered all kinds of fields in science, like; economics, informatics, chemistry, biology, law, and so on. It was interesting to see familiar faces again as well as meet new ones. After all the presentations, we had a short Guided Tour of the Campus and Scavengerhunt.
July 12, 2024 (Friday):
Today we spent our day at a student symposium at UC Clermont University. University of Central Florida joined today's activities. We were extremely pleased to once again present the Faculty of Organization and Informatics in the best possible light. After we all presented our research, we went to get to know their University. We heard many interesting facts about the University itself, as well as student life in America. After the formal part, the dean of the University, Jeffrey Bauer, invited us to his house for a party. Everyone tried making their own pizza and we ended the day with a swim in his pool.
At the end of my blog, I would like to thank, first and foremost, to the mentor and main organizer of the entire symposium, Prof. Ph.D. Violeta Vidaček-Hainš, without whom this opportunity would not have been possible for me, as well as Prof. Ph.D. To Igor Balaban, who expertly guided us through all the days of the symposium.
Furthermore, I would like to thank all the Universities that we visited and that hosted us more than enough; University of Cincinnati, University of Cincinnati Clermont College, DePaul University in Chicago, Indiana State University, Scott College of Business and TRIO McNair Scholars Program. As a partner in this symposium who accompanied us through all the days of the symposium, I would like to thank the University of Central Florida.
Of course, the entire symposium would not have been possible without help and support; Management of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics, the Student Union of the University of Zagreb, the Student Center in Varaždin, the Student Union of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics, FOI International, the County of Varaždin, the City of Varaždin and the Center for Student Support and Career Development, so I hereby thank them.
At the very end, I want to thank all the students/participants of the 12th Student Symposium!
Ana Novak
Day 7 (16. 7. 2024.)
After numerous memories gained in the city of Cincinnati and a successful journey and arrival in Terre Haute, Indiana, we were greeted by a stormy night and woke up to morning rain. After experiencing several heatwaves, this rainy morning brought a breath of refreshment, prompting us to dress in long sleeves. Regardless of the weather, we walked to Indiana State University to deliver one of our final presentations on our own quantitative research. Before arriving at the University, we enjoyed the beautiful surroundings the city offers, with a smile on our faces drawn by an artistic wall we encountered along the way, shortly before the rain clouds disappeared. At the University, we were welcomed with a very sweet breakfast consisting of the famous square doughnuts that crown Terre Haute, along with homemade cookies with chocolate chips, a delicious creation by Ms. Karen Dakić. The introduction to the daily schedule and program was conducted by Prof. Aruna Chandra, Ph.D., and the welcome speech by Dean Terry Daugherty, Ph.D. Jana Kušar presented the research first, followed by Eugen Petošić and Maja Vučković, and finally myself. In addition to us students, presentations were also given by Prof. Igor Balaban, Ph.D., and Santiago, a student from the University of Central Florida. After the formal part of the program, we headed to a well-deserved lunch at PETTY Pit Stop restaurant. The day's activities ended with a visit to the Pie Company for famous American pies. There, with professors and students from the University of Central Florida, we ordered various pies and tasted and commented on them together. We spent a pleasant afternoon discovering the flavors of America, specifically Indiana. The day concluded with a leisurely walk along the highway, with our destination set for Goodwill, a nonprofit chain of second-hand clothing, used furniture, and the like.
Day 8 (17.7.2024.)
On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, another tour of Indiana State University marked the day, followed by a very meditative picnic in one of Terre Haute's city parks. The day began with a meeting of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics delegation with Dr. Chris McGrew, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Global Engagement at ISU. Dr. McGrew took us on a brief tour of the University, followed by an introduction and exchange of experiences with Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Dr. Christopher Olsen, Ph.D. After the meeting, Dr. McGrew treated us to a delicious lunch at Pie Company where, unlike yesterday, we enjoyed substantial and savory dishes that intrigued us. We visited an alumni reunion fair, where we were treated to delicious ice cream and numerous gift packages. Next, we went to the College of Health and Human Services to meet the Dean of the College, Dr. Caroline Mallory, Ph.D., and the Associate Dean, Dr. Peggy Weber, Ph.D. We exchanged valuable and interesting experiences and laid the groundwork for potential future collaborations and partnerships. We ended the day with a walk to the Wabash River and a final meeting with Professor Aruna Chandra, Ph.D., with whom we organized a picnic at Deming Park. We had a pleasant time socializing with the professor and enjoyed delicious food and drinks.
Day 9 (18. 7. 2024.)
Thursday (July 19, 2024) was marked by final preparations and packing, and departure from Terre Haute towards Chicago. The journey took nearly 4 hours, and we arrived in Chicago around 14:00. Our first main task was to check in at the Getaway hostel. After settling in, we took a walk around the city to meet with Luciano Berardi, Ph.D., from DePaul University. Alongside Luciano, Professor Balaban guided us to Lincoln Park Zoo, and then we continued our walk to meet professors and students from the University of Central Florida halfway, proceeding to explore the city together. During our exploration, we passed through the Starbucks on 5 floors, walked through Grand Park, admired Navy Pier, and enjoyed the sounds of Mexico at a concert featuring Mexican performers. Additionally, we visited the main tourist attraction of Chicago shaped like a bean, famously known as Cloud Gate or "The Bean". After taking photos, we went for dinner and enjoyed famous Mexican dishes. The food gave us the necessary energy to continue our walk and to practice salsa dancing at the Mexican music festival. We spent a perfect evening with colleagues from Florida, and I hope to see them again soon.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude primarily to the organizers of our trip, to the Symposium leader, Prof. Dr. Violeta Vidaček-Hainš, on the overall organization of the Symposium and mentoring of us students and to Prof. Dr. Igor Balaban for his pleasant and skillful guidance through the paths of America. Furthermore, a big thank you note to the Faculty of Organization and Informatics, and within it, the Office for International Cooperation, the Student Support and Career Development Center, the Laboratory for Advanced Technologies in Education, and the FOI Student Union for continuously enriching student life and their dedicated work. I would also like to highlight the University of Zagreb, the Student Union of the University of Zagreb, the Student Center in Varaždin, the City of Varaždin, and the Varaždin County for providing financial support to students year after year. My thanks also go to the following universities and colleges in the United States for their hospitality and provided experience: University of Cincinnati, UC Clermont College, Indiana State University, Scott College of Business, DePaul University, University of Central Florida, and the TRIO McNair Scholars Program. Lastly, many thanks to the Municipality of Nedelišće and the City of Čakovec for their generous support and frequent motivation of their students, as well as to my colleagues who participated in the 12th Student Symposium.
13th of July 2024
The day began with a warm welcome from the Cincinnati team, who brought us bagels and coffe since the cafeteria is closed on weekends. This gesture refreshed us and prepared us for the activities ahead. Shortly after, Dean of the UC Clermont College, dr. Jeff Bauer, among with prof. Victorica Appatova and her husband Sergey Grinshpun, PhD, arrived with cars to take us to the National Museum of the Unites States Air Force. Upon arrival at the museum, we were greeted by friends from the Univesity of Central Florida, and inside the museum, we were joined by Dean Jeff’s father. His expert guidance and fascinating stories about the history of aviation enriched our experience and provided deeper insights into the exhibits. After the educational tour, we headed to Dublin Restaurant, where we enjoyed a plentiful and delicious mela. This opportunity for communal lunch allowed us to get to know each other better and bond through relaxed conversations and sharing impressions. The next point on our agenda was the Art Museum, an impressive institution boasting diverse collections of visual arts. I was particularly impressed by the section dedicated to feminism, whose works and messages left a strong impression. Following our visit to the museum, we spent the afternoon at the shopping mall, exploring stores and buying souvenirs. We concluded the day with a delicious dinner, satisfying our appetites after a day full of activities. Upon returning to the campus in Cincinnati, the team from Florida invited us for ice cream. This spontaneous initiative proved to be an excellent idea as we, while enjoying the ice cream, spent quality time together, laughing and having fun.
14th of July 2024
Today was a day filled with unforgettable experiences, guided by Cherity and Ty from UCF. It all started with a morning call to gather at Sleepy Bee restaurant, where we enjoyed a delightful breakfast together with the UCF team. Afterward, we headed to Fendley Market, a charming place offering various local products such as honey, soaps, jewelry, jams, and spices. The hospitality of the local vendors left a lasting impression, and we proudly purchased a variety of items as souvenirs to remember this special day. Our journey continued to a shop featuring Croatian products, where we discovered familiar items like Podravka's Vegeta seasoning, which added to the richness of our experience. The highlight of the day was attending a baseball game between the Cincinnati Reds and Miami. Thanks to the UCF students patiently explaining the game, it turned out to be incredibly enjoyable, especially when the Reds hit a home run. After the excitement at the stadium, we spent the evening at Ford's Garage restaurant, known for its unique design and delicious food that delighted our taste buds. The day concluded with a visit to a large Target store, where we had an hour to explore the extensive variety of products. The evening was spent in lively conversation and laughter, marking a perfect end to another wonderful day. These experiences will remain cherished memories of our time in Cincinnati.
15th of July 2024
The morning started off nicely as we went for breakfast at the campus student dining hall. After a satisfying meal, we needed to pack up and head to Terre Haute. Professor Igor took on the task of picking up the rental car, but this process took a bit longer than expected. Consequently, we didn’t set off towards Indiana State University until around 1 PM. We were surprised by the size of the car we received—it was much larger than anticipated. However, this turned out to be beneficial as we managed to fit all our luggage comfortably. Soon after, we stopped at Wendy's to experience American fast food, which was a fun introduction to our journey. Upon arriving in Terre Haute, we were greeted by the heat. Despite this, we were excited about what lay ahead. Dr. Aruna Chandra took us on a tour of the Indiana State University campus, which impressed us with its beauty. The team from UCF joined us for dinner at the Terminal restaurant and the food was really good. By the end of the day, Professor Ivana Đunđek welcomed us warmly. She then took us to a bar where jazz was playing, providing a perfect way to unwind after a day of travel. We ended the day enjoying great music and good company.
I would like to thank the Administration of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics, the Student Union of the University of Zagreb, the Varaždin Student Center, the FOI Student Union, the County of Varaždin, the City of Varaždin, and the Center for Student Support and Career Development of the FOI for their help and support in the realization of this project.
Also, I thank the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio; Indiana State Univesity, Terre Haute, Indiana and University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
At the very end I would like to thank the City of Pregrada for sponsoring me and to all the students/participants of the 12th Student Symposium!
Eugen Petošić
19.7.2024. (Friday)
What else to say about this day in Chicago except "What a day!" A day that cannot be summed up briefly: 35,000 steps, numerous events, meetings, and sightseeing made this day unforgettable. Early in the morning, we woke up, freshened up, and had breakfast at our hostel before heading to the free Lincoln Park Zoo. Although free, the zoo has numerous exhibits and animals, and we had the opportunity to see the feeding of seals, prairie dogs, and many other animals.
After visiting the zoo, we went for morning coffee at Dunkin' Donuts, recharged, and then headed to DePaul University.At DePaul, we were welcomed by Prof. Luciano Berardi, introduced to students from the McNair program, and began presenting our research, which was the purpose of our visit. After the presentations by all Croatian members and several rounds of audience questions, our hosts treated us to lunch at their faculty premises. Finally, our visit to DePaul concluded with a brief campus tour and discussions with their students.
After the "official" part, we quickly returned to the hostel to change and began exploring Chicago, which captivated us from the start. We used public transportation, specifically the Red Line train, to reach downtown. A day pass for the trains cost only $5 and was valid for 24 hours from the first use. Upon arrival in downtown Chicago, we immediately went on a 75-minute architectural boat tour. Jim was our guide on this beautiful tour, which I highly recommend to anyone visiting Chicago. Jim shared information about different architectural styles, how buildings "communicate" with each other, and told us a story about a significant Irish cow. For more information about the cow, you'll have to join the Chicago architectural boat tour.
After the boat tour, we went to the fast-food chain "Five Guys" for delicious fries, hotdogs, and burgers. After a quick meal, we decided to end the day with a visit to Navy Pier. After a short walk to the pier, we started to move away from downtown and enjoyed the view of Lake Michigan. The view we had of downtown Chicago from the pier is simply indescribable. After a busy and fulfilling day, we stopped and enjoyed the beauty of this incredible city. I can only say that if I hadn't fallen in love with this city before, I fell in love when night fell and the city began to light up, continuing to exude its beauty.
For the return to our accommodation, we opted for a final 1 hour and 15-minute walk, which surely exhausted us physically but truly made this day unforgettable.
20.7.2024. (Saturday)
We spent most of the day traveling 300 miles from Chicago to Cincinnati. We spent the morning and early afternoon in beautiful Chicago. During the morning, we did our final packing, checked out of our accommodation, and loaded the car with our belongings so that we could spend the afternoon exploring the city and revisiting the zoo for some of us. We had the chance to eat a real Chicago-style hot dog and relax a bit from yesterday's activities before we had to leave this beautiful city. Around 1 PM, we set off on our journey through two time zones and 300 miles towards Cincinnati. Along the way, we stopped at Taco Bell, which greatly disappointed us with its food, so we had to improve our impressions at Burger King, which ranked in the middle range of fast foods we had eaten so far. Upon returning to Cincinnati, we were greeted by Cheri Westmoreland, who helped us return to our "base" on campus. Afterward, we quickly showered and prepared for bed.
21.-22.7.2024.
We are spending our final day in America on our own and decide to go back to Rookwood, which has two large shopping complexes. We spend a few hours in the stores and then decide to have lunch at the fast-food chain “Five Guys.” After eating, we head back to the UC campus to finally prepare for our flight, which is scheduled to depart at 6:20 PM local time. Just as we were about to leave, we learn that our flight has been delayed by 5 hours. We quickly hold a "crisis meeting" to discuss our next steps and current issues. Our hosts, who wanted to see us off, come to say goodbye. We spend the time until the flight resting. Around 7:15 PM, we head to the airport, where Cheri meets us to take back the rental car.
After a rather chaotic check-in due to a system outage, we are finally ready for our flight. We head to our terminal and wait for the flight.
Boarding goes smoothly, and the 8-hour flight is uneventful; some of the group manage to get some sleep, but I didn’t. Upon arriving at Paris CDG, we decide to quickly go to the center of Paris. Because of preparations for the Olympic Games, many streets are closed, so we abandon our planned sightseeing route and head directly to the base of the Eiffel Tower. After taking a few pictures, we sit down to have coffee and enjoy some Parisian delicacies before heading back to CDG via metro and RER.
We depart from terminal 2G, which is separate from the main airport building, and wait for our flight back to Croatia. The flight to Croatia goes smoothly, and we are finally back on home soil. We say our goodbyes and head to our homes in different parts of Croatia.
I would like to thank the organizers of this Symposium, Administration of the Faculty of Organization and Informatics, the Student Union of the University of Zagreb, the Varaždin Student Center, the FOI Student Union, the County of Varaždin, the City of Varaždin, and the Center for Student Support and Career Development of the FOI for their help and support in the realization of this project.
Also, I thank the University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio; Indiana State Univesity, Terre Haute, Indiana State University and University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
