A Blend of Scholarship and Culture: EDAMBA Summer Academy Experience in Athens 

Last summer, Alaa and I had the opportunity to participate in the 33rd EDAMBA Summer Research Academy in Athens, Greece. Our participation was jointly funded by the Faculty of Business and Law and the Doctoral College. 

The EDAMBA Summer Research Academy is a learning and development forum for PhD students in business and management fields. With only 15-20 participants and spread over five days, the academy provided ample opportunities for learning, reflection, and networking. 

One of the highlights was the focus on interdisciplinary research. Discussions brought together students from various universities and research areas. Our small group sessions were particularly enlightening, as we shared experiences and identified both the opportunities and challenges of interdisciplinary projects. 

The academy also focused on research methods, with sessions on mixed methods, case studies, and PLS-SEM. These sessions were incredibly informative. As a qualitative researcher, I found the hands-on training on PLS-SEM both challenging and rewarding, broadening my understanding of this methodology. 

PhD presentations were another eagerly anticipated segment. Presenting my work was a unique learning experience, requiring me to tailor my explanation to an audience unfamiliar with my research focus. The feedback from peers and faculty was invaluable, offering strategic advice on journal selection and data analysis. Reviewing a colleague’s work for the first time was both exciting and rewarding, sparking discussions about potential future collaborations. 

The academy wasn’t all work and no play. We had the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful performance by the ERT Contemporary Music Orchestra and visit the National Archaeological Museum. We also explored the city during the evenings. 

Overall, the 33rd EDAMBA Summer Academy was a rich tapestry of learning, networking, and cultural experiences. It broadened my perspective on interdisciplinary research, enriched my methodological toolkit, and provided a platform for meaningful academic exchanges. I’m eagerly looking forward to applying these insights to my future research and collaborations.