For Dr. Marcin Bochenek, an associate professor and Head of the Dance Department at the Józef Piłsudski Academy of Physical Education in Biała Podlaska, Poland, international collaboration is an essential part of advancing dance education and cultural understanding. Through the Erasmus+ exchange program, Bochenek brought that commitment to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he explored new approaches to movement, teaching and interdisciplinary learning.
The Erasmus+ program, an initiative of the European Union, supports international academic mobility, allowing students, doctoral candidates and participating higher education institutions to exchange knowledge, develop intercultural skills and gain new academic perspectives. Through partnerships between universities, the program creates opportunities for participants to experience different educational environments and build connections that extend beyond national borders.
For Bochenek, whose career combines dance pedagogy, choreography, scientific research and cultural leadership, the opportunity to visit UAB offered a chance to explore the American higher education system and discover how different approaches to movement education could inform his own teaching and research.
His home institution's existing partnership with UAB initially introduced him to the university. He was interested in UAB's Department of Theatre, performing arts community and Occupational Therapy program, especially the therapeutic applications of movement and dance for individuals with disabilities.
“For someone working at the intersection of education, dance and physical activity, UAB offered a unique combination of academic excellence and practical innovation,” Bochenek said. “Looking back, I can confidently say that choosing UAB was one of the best professional decisions I have made. Not for a moment did I feel I had chosen the wrong destination.”
During his visit, Bochenek shared his expertise through numerous classes and academic sessions, engaging with UAB students in cultural exchange and introducing approaches to dance, movement and motor ability exercises. He also shared his experience in international collaboration and work with nongovernmental organizations and engaged with students and community organizations in Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
In addition to sharing his expertise, Bochenek observed classes, connected with faculty and worked directly with UAB students. He was impressed by the practical focus of instruction, student engagement and the supportive learning environment. Participating in kinesiology classes coordinated by Laurie Malone, PhD, and visiting the Lakeshore Foundation provided valuable insights into the connections between movement, physical activity, education and inclusion.
“Laurie was extraordinary,” Bochenek said. “She created countless opportunities for me to meet faculty members, observe classes, build professional connections and gain a deep understanding of the university.
“Her guidance, support and care were instrumental in making this mobility experience a success.”
Bochenek also highlighted the work of educators and artists, including Valerie Accetta, Mary Margaret Scalici and the Movement-to-Music (M2M) team, whose commitment to dance, movement and serving others left a lasting impression.
“The most valuable lesson I will take away from UAB is the importance of creating learning environments that combine academic excellence with genuine care for students,” Bochenek said.
The experience offered more than classroom observations. As an educator and researcher, Bochenek shared and gained new perspectives on interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly at the intersection of the arts, education, health sciences and occupational therapy. He plans to apply these insights to his teaching and future projects in Poland.
“I will return to Poland with fresh ideas, new friendships and a reinforced belief in the power of international cooperation in higher education,” Bochenek said.
Catherine Crowe, JD, UAB Senior International Officer, was grateful for Dr. Malone’s persistence and support in reviving the relationship between UAB and Józef Piłsudski Academy of Physical Education. “We are delighted that Dr. Bochenek chose UAB for his prestigious Erasmus+ exchange experience. International collaboration is more important than ever before. We highly value our relationship with our Polish partners and look forward to future exchange endeavors.”