Inspiring FLEX Alumni

FLEX Alumni is a diverse community of curious students, dedicated volunteers, thriving athletes, attentive voyagers and emerging leaders. Their lives, once united in a transformative FLEX exchange experience in the USA, are now filled with a wide range of activities. Years later, alumni keep pursuing their passions and discovering their purpose, all while contributing to positive change in local communities. Let’s hear their inspiring stories!

Bartek Hadryan - from Washington State to the Skies

Back in the U.S.

Bartek’s exchange in Washington State was a life-changing experience. Eager to explore everything his new environment has to offer, he engaged in various activities in his high school, including rowing, swimming, and hurdling in track and field. His host family, with whom he reunites once or twice a year, introduced him to volunteering opportunities in his local community at the New Adventure Church. He especially enjoyed the trips organized by the church. It has been a new adventure for Bartek indeed! 

After the exchange

The FLEX exchange broadened Bartek's perspective, revealing countless possibilities the world has to offer. It made him realize the challenge of narrowing down interests when one's opportunities seem unlimited. All and all, his passion for traveling and exploring new cultures, once ignited, could not be contained, as he embarked on even more adventures abroad.

New opportunities

Back in Poland after his exchange and graduating from a Polish high school, Bartek's wanderlust led him to Vienna, Austria, where he pursued his studies for the next seven years. Despite his stay in Austria, Bartek's lifelong dream of flying remained strong, ultimately leading him to become a steward with Swiss airlines. Now traveling around the world, Bartek feels fulfilled as he realizes his aspirations. Although it took him some time to find his true passion, he acknowledges the importance of taking gradual steps towards self-fulfillment rather than rushing towards lofty goals.

Iga Karasińska - from Kansas to Global Diplomacy

Back in the U.S.

When Iga arrived in Topeka, Kansas, she was ready to embrace every aspect of American high school life. Whether she was competing in tennis matches, swimming on the school team, singing in the school choir or volunteering in Topeka community, Iga was always eager to learn and connect with others. Iga eagerly joined debates and debating contests, which improved her ability to think under time pressure, construct compelling arguments, and critically analyze issues. It wasn't just about the activities though; it was the friendships she made and the personal growth she experienced that made her exchange year unforgettable. The debate club provided her with the opportunity to forge friendships with American peers who shared similar interests. Iga had a wonderful host family and reunited with her host sister, Reagan, in New York City the following September.

After the exchange

After returning to Poland from the United States, Iga's thirst for knowledge and international experiences led her back to the USA. She participated in a scholarship program at Yale University, focusing on International Affairs and Security. The program gathered participants from over 30 countries, discussing global geopolitical issues, contemporary challenges, and analyzing global conflicts. Upon returning from the programs, Iga became deeply involved in youth politics and participated in sessions of the European Youth Parliament (EYP) Poland. She even organized a session in Przemyśl!

New opportunities

Iga pursued her studies at the College of Interdisciplinary Individual Studies (MISH) at the University of Warsaw, where she completed a degree in sociology and is currently in her fourth year of law studies. She is also enrolled in the British Law School program, actively participates in academic conferences, and publishes scientific articles. 

Iga has been also involved in several non-governmental organizations, including the European Academy of Diplomacy, Center for Civic Activities, and Ważne Sprawy Foundation. Her expertise in social media, marketing, public relations, and project management has been crucial in organizing conferences and projects for young people in Poland, contributing to elevating the level of public debate in the country. Passionate about making a difference, Iga frequently applies for FLEX Alumni grants to implement valuable and high-quality social projects.

Filip Gawliński - from North Carolina to Sports and Enterprise

Back in the U.S.

Filip's American adventure unfolded in the heart of North Carolina, where he found his passion for American football. Filip dedicated himself to the sport, qualifying for the team and contributing to their remarkable journey to the finals. Although his team fell short of victory, the experience was a significant achievement!

Filip's daily routine was a whirlwind of school and sports, starting with classes at 7:15 AM and spending his afternoons on the football field from 2 PM to 5 PM. Off the field, he devoted much of his time to volunteering in the church kitchen, alongside his host father. Given that his host family was deeply involved in the church community, Filip's volunteer activities were primarily centered around church-related events and initiatives. Filip became a beloved member of his host family, even bonding with their pet dog, Sparky. Eager to reconnect, he visited them during Thanksgiving, immersing himself once again in their everyday life.

After the exchange

Back in Poland, Filip has continued to explore new horizons, embracing the challenge of learning Mandarin and nurturing his dedication to new cultures and languages. Filip has also a passion for fitness, practicing bodybuilding and powerlifting. The mantra “healthy body, healthy mind” resonates deeply with him, showing his commitment to physical and mental well-being.

New opportunities

His American experience has not only shaped his personal growth but also opened doors to exciting opportunities in his professional life. Currently working for an American company, Filip cherishes the opportunity to maintain daily contact with American culture and utilize the language skills he acquired during his exchange year. He enjoys his job and continues to explore new challenges and opportunities.

Amelia Jangas - from Oregon to Healthcare and Politics

Back in the U.S.

Amelia's story begins in the charming town of Hillsboro, Oregon, where she attended Glencoe High School. Amelia was drawn to psychology, inspired by her favorite teacher whom she still holds dear. Beyond academics, Amelia found her place in the color guard of the marching band and played softball. Her passion for volunteerism led her to join several clubs, including Glencoe Key Club and Sparrow's Club, where she organized events for children with cancer. This dedication to community service was not new to Amelia, who had previously volunteered in Poland for causes like bone marrow donations. 

After the exchange

Despite dreaming of studying abroad in Scandinavia since elementary school, Amelia's life took an unexpected turn, leading her to the Medical University of Warsaw. Fueled by her experiences in the USA, she became actively involved in youth organizations and eventually joined a political party in Poland. The COVID-19 pandemic, while disrupting her initial plans, provided Amelia with the time to delve into political activism, aligning her more closely with a political career path.

New opportunities

At the Medical University of Warsaw, Amelia serves as the Vice President of the Audiological and Phoniatric Science Club at the Pediatric Hospital at University Clinical Center of the Warsaw Medical University. Amelia actively participates in conferences, organizes meetings for the science club and works as a medical assistant in a clinic. 

Amelia made headlines as the youngest candidate in her district to run for parliament. She has participated in the upcoming regional elections in the Greater Poland Voivodeship as well. As a representative of the Young Left in healthcare, Amelia finds great satisfaction in merging her interests in medicine and politics, looking forward to what the future holds.

Oliwia Łubińska - from Virginia to Civic Engagement 

Back in the U.S.

Nestled amidst mountains and close to nature, Oliwia found herself in the scenic town of Charlottesville, Virginia. With seven years of basketball experience under her belt before arriving in the USA, she played two seasons of varsity basketball at her local high school. During the spring season she also tried her hand at track and field. Oliwia credits her basketball team and her coach as significant mentors who supported her personal growth.

Beyond sports, she was captivated by her classes in AP Government and AP Psychology, igniting her interest in politics. She actively participated in various school clubs, including the multicultural club. A defining moment during her exchange was shadowing Professor Jellene Done Smith at the University of Virginia. Through this experience, Oliwia delved into topics like economic impact in Charlottesville, student housing crises, and the history of African Americans and slavery. She got an insight into the inner workings of an American college.

After the exchange

Back in Poland, Oliwia didn't let her newfound knowledge and experiences go to waste. She became a City Representative for her Polish hometown, Kutno, implementing social projects, especially for underprivileged communities. Her commitment to making a difference extended to volunteering with the Webkorki Foundation, tutoring children in English and organizing various fundraising activities.

New opportunities

Inspired by the American school system, not only does Oliwia plan to study International Relations or Law in the U.S. in the future, but she also aimed to bring more extracurricular activities and community engagement to her school in Poland. She organized school events, created scholarship guides, and promoted civic participation, believing that positive change starts with one person and can have a vast effect on the whole community. With a vision to promote multiculturalism and international exchange, Oliwia plans to implement projects that connect youth from different countries, fostering mutual understanding and respect. 

Oliwia, along with her fellow FLEX alumni, has also won tickets for an Interrail trip across Europe. She plans to use them over the course of the next summer break and is very excited to join her friends for the new adventure that lies ahead!

Norbert Sułek - from Iowa to Azores

Back in the U.S.

Norbert’s placement in the U.S. has turned out to be in the picturesque town of Norwalk in Iowa, where he immersed himself in a variety of activities and volunteer work. His host mom, being also a local coordinator, introduced him to numerous volunteer opportunities, allowing him to meet new people and make lasting connections within the community.

One of Norbert's most cherished volunteer experiences, among many involving various festivals and events, was at a botanical garden. Intrigued by the beauty of the garden during his first visit with his American friends, he offered his assistance and has been able to volunteer as a guide there.

At school, Norbert joined the tennis club, finding immense joy in the sport. He also participated in an art club. From pottery to organizing school events, Norbert embraced new experiences and made the most of his time abroad.

After the exchange

Upon returning to Poland, Norbert successfully completed all his classes through homeschooling and passed the Polish matura exam. He continued to engage in community events back home, assisting with the organization of a “Christmas Card for Seniors” event in Wrocław. He then enrolled in a unique bioeconomy program at the University of Life Sciences in Wrocław. The program not only provided him with advanced training in mi biotechnology and sustainable resource management, but also some unique opportunities for international collaboration and a global perspective on bioeconomy challenges.

New opportunities

Eager to broaden his horizons further, Norbert applied for and recently returned from an Erasmus program on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores. Compared to bustling Wrocław, life there felt slower and more relaxed. Studying his chosen field in such a unique and beautiful setting, living in a lively dorm with fellow Erasmus students very close to the ocean, he quickly picked up surfing and fell head over heels for the sport. Norbert explored neighboring islands, took part in local events and festivals, and enjoyed beach days with his friends. From driving around scenic spots to soaking in thermal springs, life on the Azores brought him closer to nature!