BRIDGE 2026 brought the EMERGE European University Alliance mission to life through three community-engaged placements across Slovakia and Ireland. This summer, 38 students from eight EMERGE partner universities joined 13 students from Eastern Michigan University (USA) to work in international, multidisciplinary teams. Rather than completing individual internships, participants collaborated on projects designed with local communities, creating meaningful impact while developing intercultural, civic, and professional skills.
Across three locations, students addressed different challenges connected to the Alliance’s mission of empowering the margins of Europe through education, collaboration, and community engagement.
In Zvolen, Slovakia, students partnered with the Association Slatinka to design and build a land art intervention in Lanice Park. Developed alongside local residents, the project transformed a public space through collaborative design and practical work. The placement concluded with more than 60 community members forming a symbolic human chain around the park, celebrating a shared achievement. Four benches, designed and built by the students, remain as a lasting contribution to the local community.
In Banská Bystrica, Slovakia, EMERGE students worked alongside their peers from Eastern Michigan University to deliver an English Summer Camp for 58 children. Guided by Zuzana Tomas and organised in collaboration with the Centre for Community Organising (CKO) and Centrum dobrovoľníctva, n. o., the programme combined language learning with civic engagement, intercultural dialogue, and communication skills. More than 30 family members, volunteers, and community representatives attended the children’s final presentation, highlighting the strong connection between the project and the local community.
In Ireland, students joined the internationally recognised therapeutic camp at Barretstown Castle, serving as “Cara”, the Irish word for friend. Working alongside experienced staff, returning volunteers, and the Camp Management Team, they supported children and young people living with serious illness. Their role focused on creating an environment where campers felt safe, included, and free to enjoy childhood through friendship, play, and shared experiences.
Although each placement addressed a different community need, they shared a common purpose. Students became active members of local teams, contributing their knowledge while learning directly from community partners. Each experience required preparation, responsibility, adaptability, and collaboration across cultures.
BRIDGE 2026 demonstrates how the EMERGE Alliance translates its mission into meaningful action. From revitalising public spaces and strengthening civic participation to supporting children facing serious health challenges, the programme shows the value of international collaboration grounded in local communities.
The EMERGE Alliance extends its sincere thanks to every BRIDGE participant, to Eastern Michigan University for its continued collaboration, and to the community partners and host organisations whose commitment made these placements possible. Their dedication created learning experiences that will continue to influence both the students and the communities long after the programme’s conclusion.