Webster Vienna Students Attend European Forum Alpbach

Two Webster University undergraduates attended the European Forum Alpbach earlier this year. The theme of the conference was “New Europe” and it was held Aug. 21-Sept. 2.

Valeriia Shchyholieva and Ilya Luttsev, both undergraduates at the Vienna campus who are pursuing degrees in business and administration, attended the event alongside more than 50 people from around Europe. They shared their personal experiences, views and interpretations about a “new Europe” and generated ideas to spark action.

The European Forum Alpbach is a platform that advances ideas for a self-determined and democratic Europe. It brings together the next generation of leaders in Europe with the most innovative minds, as well as decision-makers and experts in politics, business, academia, culture and society from around the world to engage and contribute to its mission.

“This year was my first time at the European Forum Alpbach,” Shchyholieva said. “Although I had already heard from my friend about the Forum Alpbach in 2019, I knew that this was my chance to be part of this inspiring place that opens minds and souls for the future of Europe. A forum that generates ideas and inspires action.”

 “I value my contribution to the Alpbach Forum as a great opportunity to meet new people and participate in various seminars that can provide me with new knowledge and perspectives on various topics and issues,” Luttsev said.

During the forum, it was noted that the increasingly complex geopolitical situation in which Europe must position itself requires developing a European response that can effectively address current challenges and anticipate future threats while preserving its values and principles.

The students agreed there is a chance to create a strong Europe that remembers its history and learns from it.

“I liked the prospect of European Union leaders and other business and political figures creating a single European market and a stable, independent economy,” Luttsev said. “I believe this would return the European Union to its status as a strong player on the world stage and accelerate development in all areas. After this forum, I had hope for a quick end to the crisis and a bright future. I would like to believe that all the plans and ideas expressed there will become a reality as soon as possible.” 

The European Forum Alpbach has made a significant contribution to the intellectual life of post-war Europe since the first gathering back in 1945. Above all, mediation between science and practice has been an important goal from the very beginning as well as bringing together the next generation of European leaders.

The student’s stay and participation at the forum was kindly sponsored by the RPR Private Foundation.