Michał Kuźba

Current position/affiliation:

Machine Learning Scientist at Expedia Group

The Meaning of Geography to Me

Geography for me is a lot about understanding the world and processes shaping it. It is a
way to realize and admire the diversity of the world both from natural and human
perspective.

I often think about geography as of a foundation of knowledge, or general knowledge about
the world. For example, a good understanding of map and geographical locations allows me
to locate events and imagine some context behind it. (And for me it started when my family showed me the map and I started learning capitals at
around 6-7yo and then stared at the outdated mapbooks from my parent’s school times
with countries that no longer existed or changed their names. So for me geography was
always a lot about the maps.)

Impact of iGeo Preparation on my Life

I would not hesitate to say that both iGeos I participated at were one of the best and most
memorable moments of my life.
It was truly gorgeous time, and really one (two) of a kind!
What I love about iGeo and what is a unique experience is that you meet people from all
over the world but in a different way than visiting an international city or even working or
living in an international environment.

The two truly unique things are: people very knowledgeable and curious about world,
sharing the same passion. And second thing is that everyone is equally important, everyone
represents their own country with the same team size, same opportunities regardless of
where they come from and how large or rich their country is. This is very different from
other experiences where there are always some differences of perception, opportunities
etc.
Also, I believe representing your country is a very unique and lovely moment.
From the other perspective, I’d say preparation and participation are definitely a boost in
terms of language skills (English but not only!). Both from the perspective of the contest
itself and social interactions with other people.
Then, participation in iGeo made me consider studying abroad, because I loved the
atmosphere of interacting with people from all over the world. Eventually I decided not to,
but I’ve gone quite advanced through the process before changing mind.
I’d also say it was a great challenge to test myself in the international setting which is a
great confidence boost.
I definitely met a lot of awesome people and the biggest regret and disappointment would
be that I have met only a few after iGeo, but perhaps it’s never too late to change that!
But most importantly, I’m left with some amazing memories of a really unique and happy
time!

Ideas for Promoting Geography

I’m not too sure, since I’ve always been in love with geography. I could imagine physical
maps are important to experience (it was so for me). I’m not a big fan of Google Maps,
although I tend to use it and feel a physical map is a different experience, so good to
promote them and give to children/students.
Now, I think it’s a difficult question of what to do with geography after high school, and btw
I’m very curious about what people do professionally nowadays, and I can imagine a wide
range of choices. I felt geography is a great foundation to go somewhere else, unless
moving into academia which is still an unknown area to me. Perhaps, it’s a waste of talent
that a lot of people finish their geographical adventure on iGeo.

Suggestions for the iGeo

The way it worked in the so-called “my time” was really amazing and I wouldn’t change it.
I loved the post-iGeo trips, something to keep definitely, there’s more time to socialize then
and also learn about the place in a much more exciting way than just going there for a trip.
Now, I could not imagine to participate in iGeo remotely and I would feel it’s lacking a lot
compared to the physical experience, so I would do everything to make it happen in real.
I believe initiatives like this one are great to have! I’d love to see the community more
connected and very curious to hear the results of this survey. Ideally, there should be a
reunion one day! And generally, I’d be up to any engagement in the community.
Maybe the award ceremony could be broadcasted live, would be a great tradition to watch
them every year.
I’m not too sure about other suggestions, but if there’s any way to be useful I’m open to
that!
Thank you for the survey and keeping the iGeo happening. Again I’m curious to learn the
results. And thanks for bringing back the good memories!