Master's Students at the Entre Camp 2025 in Seville

Smart cities and regions: Aiming for a multiple perspective

The Entre Camp 2025 was a five-day intensive program hosted by the University of Seville, bringing together 40 master’s students from across the Ulysseus European University alliance. As a member of the alliance, MCI was represented by three International Health & Social Management (IHSM) master’s students who successfully secured a spot in this great program.

Annalena Eckhardt, student of the IHSM 2024 cohort shares her insights and experiences from this inspiring week:

Which projects were tackled during the week?

We worked in small, international teams on different local challenges connected to sustainability and innovation, e.g. developing ideas for the transformation of the former Port of Seville into a Net Zero District or supporting the public transport authority in creating strategies to increase the use of buses and other sustainable options in Seville.

How was the week structured?

We began with team-building and problem exploration, followed by interviews, ideation, and pitching. All within just a few days – it was a tight and intensive schedule, and definitely not an average week of university. Right at the beginning, one of the coaches told us: “You’ll struggle during this week – and that’s exactly what you need to find real solutions and learn how to grow as a team.” That sentence stuck with many of us – and proved absolutely true.

What were the main challenges?

Definitely the time pressure and navigating the dynamics in international teams – different communication styles, expectations, and ways of working came together fast. But that’s also what made it so valuable: real collaboration rarely happens in a comfort zone.

What were some highlights outside the seminar room?

We didn’t just work – we also experienced the soul of Seville. From discovering hidden local spots to watching a private Flamenco performance in a small, traditional bar – those moments added a lot of magic to the week and made it truly unforgettable.

Would you recommend other MCI students applying for a Blended Intensive Program (BIP) like this?

I would absolutely recommend it. Yes, the days are long and you’ll be thrown into a fast-paced environment with new people and new ways of thinking – which can be tiring. However, you gain hands-on experience, meet students from all over Europe, and grow professionally and personally in a very short time. It felt like a mix of a learning sprint and a cultural break – and that’s what made it so special.

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