Feeling of domesticated otherness
The Visegrad Fund Team is keen to recruit interns to its team. Sometimes it is for a few weeks, sometimes for a few months. In this spring season, a smiling woman called Agata Miętus originally from Poland is keeping us company. To help you get to know her better, we’ve swapped a few thoughts with her about the feeling of domesticated otherness.
Where are you from and what are you studying?
I am from Krakow, and I am about to finish my master studies in Entrepreneurship and Innovations at the University of Economics in Krakow.
Why is a student from Krakow University interested in an internship in Bratislava?
Well, there are two main reasons. Firstly, it is a requirement from my studies to complete a 3-month long internship during the last semester of studies. Secondly, my boyfriend is Slovak and works here in Bratislava. I just thought that I could combine business with pleasure.
How did you find out about Visegrad Fund and what made you apply for the internship?
I was lucky enough to participate in the Eastern European Feminist Summer School funded in 2021 by the Visegrad Fund, that’s how I started following the Fund’s activity. When the opportunity arose to have an internship in a different country, I did not hesitate. I was also encouraged by a post from the previous intern, who is from France. It gave me a ray of hope that maybe, I too, can be chosen for the internship.
What did you like the most when experiencing the internship in the Fund?
The environment of learning and growing. From the beginning I was given various tasks and I really enjoyed learning about the processes that happen in the Fund. Additionally, everybody was helpful and encouraging! It is impossible not to thrive in such surroundings.
What significant differences do you see between young people in Slovakia and in Poland?
Living in Poland, I’ve always felt a strong sense of national pride in our history and culture. Coming to Slovakia, it’s interesting to see a different perspective. Young Slovaks seem less focused on grand narratives, which can be refreshing. It makes me wonder if there’s an opportunity to see their nation not as insignificant but a potential waiting to be explored. I believe every country has a unique story to tell, and Slovakia’s is just waiting to be discovered by its young people. They should see how many possibilities they really have and how much power and potential lies ahead of them.
How do you perceive our country and capital city? What do you like the most?
I really like Bratislava for its compact size. It’s familiar and secure, making me feel safe. Yet, at the same time, there’s always a hidden corner, a new museum, or a charming caffe waiting to be discovered. It reminds me of a quote by Polish writer Weronika Gogola, who described Slovakia for Poles as “inność oswojona” – a “domesticated otherness.” I completely get it! Bratislava feels comfortably different, offering a new perspective without being overwhelming.
What are your hobbies, interests… do you have a passion for something?
If I had to answer this question shortly, I would say: women… and feminism. This is my source of inspiration and my academic interest. Beyond that, I am a curious reader drawn to reportages, non-fiction and poems. I love art in all shapes or forms, going to museums and theatres, and collaging. And to balance it all, I love staying active with running and swimming. So, a little bit of everything makes my day much better.
If someone asked you to describe yourself, what would you say?
I would say I am a social learner. I find that interacting with others and engaging with different content helps me understand the world around me better. There’s always something new to discover, and people are a constant source of fascinating stories and experiences.