Karol Mitręga on studying architecture in Kielce and designing with a mission

Ola Skorupa

11 of September '25

Podcast Foundations 20#

Karol Mitręga -
podcast #20 of the series "Foundations"

The episode and the entire series are also available on Soundcloud and Spotify:

In the latest episode of the "Foundations" podcast, the guest is {tag:studenci} - a graduate and current master's student at Kielce Polytechnic University of Technology. He talks about his choice of university, the peculiarities of studying in a smaller center, the unique master-student relationship, and how his studies and first apprenticeship influenced his outlook on architecture.

classes at the Children's Polytechnic of Swietokrzyska

why Swietokrzyska Polytechnic?

Although he initially considered his choice of studies in large cities - Krakow, Warsaw or Gliwice - he ultimately decided on Kielce. The proximity to home was decisive, but above all the opinions about the intimate atmosphere and individual approach to students.

At our university you can really feel the master-student relationship

- Mitręga emphasizes.

Long consultations, the opportunity to talk about projects and real experiences from construction sites or design offices make students develop their ideas faster and get to know the practical face of the architectural profession.

learning outside the classroom

Kacper also mentions the unique experience the university gave him:

Children's Swietokrzyska Polytechnic - teaching children about the basics of architecture. It was then that he discovered his passion for didactics.
Scientific Circle ARCHET - reactivated after the pandemic, focused on contemporary architecture and the integration of students of different majors.
Kinoarchitektura - a series of film meetings organized jointly with the Chamber of Architects, which brought together students and practitioners of the profession.

diploma with a mission: oncology center

A particularly important stage of the study was the diploma thesis - the concept of the Day Oncology Center in Kielce. It was inspired by personal experience and reflection on the role of architecture in reducing patient stress.

Architecture will not eliminate the disease, but it can reduce tension and create a space where people feel safer

- he emphasizes.

He prepared for the project for more than a year, analyzing scientific literature, talking to doctors, nurses and patients.

first work experience

With the new apprenticeship system introduced in 2023, Charles got his first professional job as early as during his studies. Combining academic responsibilities, diploma preparation and office work proved challenging, but also provided a solid foundation for further development.

Finally, Karol Mitraga recalls an inspiring story - the design of Habitat 67 in Montreal, one of the icons of world architecture, which was.... a master's thesis. This proves that student ideas can change the world.