Dayton Engineer

By Alexandria Ford '26

Imagine exploring the heart of Europe where centuries-old history intertwines with cutting-edge future innovation. This was reality for mechanical engineering student Iga Jaromin when embarking on the GE Aerospace Immersion program in Poland.

This enriching experience integrated political, economic and cultural exchanges with opportunities for sightseeing. The 10-day program included visits to prominent Polish and multinational companies, interactions with Polish government officials and business leaders and meeting President Andrzej Duda. Participants toured significant Polish factories, such as GE Power and explored notable cultural landmarks. This comprehensive agenda was designed to enhance students' understanding of Poland through direct, on-site learning experiences.

Being sent this opportunity by a supervisor, Jaromin was one of 10 students selected to participate in this program. Participants were chosen from universities across the United States. She submitted a video, where she explained her deep interest in GE and their work in Poland, admiring the lifestyle and contributions of engineers in that region.

In the video, Jaromin shared how her Polish heritage shaped her perspectives and values.

“This blend of personal background and professional curiosity allowed me to express why the program felt like a perfect fit for me. The video really gave me a chance to convey my passion beyond the written application,” Jaromin said.

With her parents as immigrants from Poland, it was important for her to connect familial heritage with her passion for engineering. Jaromin was interested in this program as Polish was her first language.

Jaromin was reminded of her childhood through the program.

“We drove through the countryside of Poland where I would spend my summers as a kid. I would remember all the great memories I had, like running through the fields or herding the animals,” Jaromin said.

“I am very proud to be Polish,” Jaromin said. “While we were in the towns and cities, it would always bring me back to my previous trips to Poland and make me ever so grateful that I could be a part of such a beautiful heritage and wouldn't change it for the world.”

Jaromin chose engineering with her passion for hands-on learning. She loves engineering with her desire to help others, knowing this was her vocation from a young age.

“I took things apart and put them back together,” Jaromin said. “You’re creating resources for other people to make their lives easier.”

Reflecting on her time in Poland, Jaromin believes her engineering education at UD has prepared her for this experience. She praises the Marianist vision of the university and believes UD’s holistic approach to engineering stood out among other participants in the immersion program.

“It was a once in a lifetime experience,” Jaromin said.

Iga noted her favorite part was meeting the President of Poland and taking a selfie.

Now back at UD for her junior year, Iga is eager to bring her experiences from Poland back to her Stitt Scholar cohort, where students combine technical innovation and entrepreneurship to help local clients grow their business. After graduation, she is interested in pursuing a master's degree at the University of Dayton to continue her interest in engineering.