A student of Mari State University got knowledge at the Lorand Eötvös University

Ksenia Poduzova shares her impressions:

"Studying abroad has always seemed like a pipe dream to me. However, thanks to the help of teachers of our university, support of relatives and my own efforts, I was able to realize this dream.

The international department of the university told us about the Stipendium Hungaricum program. I had no doubts about participating - it was a chance I couldn't miss in any case! In March I was nominated for the program and the universities I chose contacted me for an interview. As I am studying at the direction of 41.03.05 International Relations I chose American Studies at such universities in Hungary as the University of Eötvös Loránd and the Catholic University of Petr Pazmán.

The experience of interacting with people from different countries and cultures deserves special attention, because the atmosphere of friendliness and positive attitude was everywhere: in the common kitchen in the dormitory, the sports grounds, the rooms. Since I arrived in advance, I had time to attend all the welcoming events, get the necessary documents and, of course, see the main sights of Budapest. The realization that I really was in another country came to me only when I saw for the first time the famous Hungarian Parliament. Incredibly beautiful, majestic, impregnable - till the end of my stay in Hungary I never tired of admiring the place.

The system of education in Hungary assumes an independent choice of subjects based on the list of required disciplines. I took subjects such as "Language Practice" where we learned how to speak English correctly and in an orderly fashion; "Academic Writing" where we were taught how to write academic papers; "Ethnic Minorities in the United States" where each student had to write a project about one of the peoples; and "Specialization in English-speaking Cultures" where we improved our intercultural communication skills.

At first it was hard to adapt to a new language environment and mentality, but after a couple of weeks I was able to adjust to the new rhythm of life. Devoting time to studying on weekdays, on weekends I was able to go to small towns in the neighborhood (Visegrad, Szentendre). And during the fall break I even got to go to Croatia and Montenegro to catch the last sunny days and swim in the Adriatic Sea.

With each passing day, time passed more quickly, and in mid-December, the exam period had already begun. Due to a worsening epidemiological situation, part of the examinations were conducted online, which reduced the stress level of the assignments. After successfully completing the session, I returned to Russia.

Was it scary and uncomfortable for me in a completely unfamiliar environment? Of course it was. Was it worth it to risk your normal routine for the sake of a new experience and emotion? Absolutely, yes. I am so glad that I used this opportunity and had an unforgettable experience. I would like to thank my native university for the support and the opportunity to participate in the Stipendium Hungaricum program."