“At FSS, in the next four years, I would like to continue doing everything it already does so well, be visible outside of academia, and, most importantly, become even more successful internationally. I would also really like to have an even more diverse international faculty in four years, both in terms of the composition of students and the mix of teachers and researchers.”
Vít Hloušek, the Vice Dean for Research and Doctoral Studies
What does your ideal morning look like?
I've been waking up very early for decades, whether it’s a Friday or a holiday. I don't particularly enjoy it, but there's nothing I can do about it. So, I appreciate every morning when there's a nice sunrise. The concept of the ideal morning was perhaps invented by the Italians, who indulge in a glass of prosecco for breakfast. However, on the vast majority of mornings, I'm content with a simple caffè macchiato.
What book have you read lately?
Recently, I completed Dermot Hodson's latest book Circle of Stars, which provides a comprehensive history of the European Union. I am looking forward to Timothy Garton Ash's latest book Europe, Our Home. In general, I've been reading a lot of books on contemporary history lately, but I also love detective stories. I recently discovered Jussi Adler Olsen and his Department Q, so I'm slowly making my way through that. Additionally, I like to return to any of the novels by Umberto Eco, Michel Houellebecq, or Laurent Binet from time to time.
What is your favorite place at the faculty?
I don't have any particular dislikes when it comes to places at the faculty. I've been fortunate with all my offices, but since the stairwell renovation, my current favorite spot is our new departmental kitchen, complete with its hidden coffee machine. The library has its charming spots. I must say we have a nice faculty.
What has surprised you the most in the last six months?
The seemingly infinite abbreviations associated with science, research, and doctoral studies.
What do you think is the most important thing for FSS in the coming year?
From the perspective of doctoral studies, the crucial aspect is the mental preparation for the transformation of its financing. This shift should mainly lead to greater integration of PhD students as junior researchers within individual departments and institutes. I wholeheartedly support this change, and several departments at our faculty have already been moving in this direction. However, we face challenges from the relevant state institutions regarding the specific parameters of this transition.
Which point in the strategic plan are you most looking forward to implementing?
As one of our former deans noted, ”The plan is nothing; the planning is everything.” This philosophy aligns with my perspective—I don't have a specific goal in mind; rather, I eagerly anticipate the entirety of the work ahead. It extends beyond the role of vice dean; I'm fortunate enough to enjoy what I do and to do what I enjoy. Moreover, I’m even more fortunate thanks to the people I work with.
After the Christmas holiday break, we’re proud to bring you a refreshed section featuring colleagues from various departments of the faculty. In each edition, we’ll ask one person the same seven questions. This time, we spoke with Lenka Kuchyňková, a new addition to the Communication Office, who is responsible for organizing faculty events and managing the department’s administration.
This November at the Faculty of Social Studies was marked by a vibrant varied program, engaging events, and visits from notable personalities. Among the highlights were Tea with the Dean and the graduation ceremonies, which you can read more about in other articles in this newsletter. The faculty, however, also hosted several other interesting events.