Moving from South Asia to Central Europe requires significant adjustments in lifestyle, academics, and social dynamics. Draha’s journey from Bangladesh to the University of Pécs illustrates the realistic challenges and substantial rewards of studying abroad in Hungary. Arriving on a Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship to study business, Draha faced the immediate reality of living independently while navigating a completely unfamiliar educational system. Her experience provides a practical blueprint for prospective international students evaluating whether Hungary is the right destination for their higher education.
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Adapting to a New Educational System in Hungary
Transitioning from the educational structure in Bangladesh to a European university model presents a steep learning curve. During her first semester, Draha encountered rigorous academic demands, particularly in subjects like Economics and Statistics. These courses required different analytical approaches than what she had experienced previously, leading to initial doubts about her academic fit.
Overcoming these academic hurdles requires proactive strategies. Rather than isolating herself, Draha engaged in group study sessions and spent extensive hours in the university library. Collaborative learning is a highly effective method for international students to bridge educational gaps. By sharing the workload and explaining concepts to one another, students can decode complex materials that might seem overwhelming when tackled alone. Expect the first semester to be difficult. Accepting this reality early prevents discouragement and allows you to focus on building the necessary study habits to succeed in a Hungarian academic environment.
Finding Community and Support in Pécs
Academic challenges are only one part of the international student experience. Arriving in Pécs, Draha had to master basic life skills—from managing household chores like cooking and laundry to navigating the local transit system. The city of Pécs played a crucial role in easing this transition. Known for its calm, cozy atmosphere, the city is deeply integrated with its student population, making it less intimidating than larger European capitals.
The Value of a “Helper Culture” Among International Students
One of the defining characteristics of student life at the University of Pécs is the robust support network among peers. Draha quickly noticed a strong “helper culture” where upperclassmen and fellow international students actively checked on newcomers. These peer connections became her primary support system, functioning as a surrogate family during moments of homesickness or stress.
Building this type of network requires effort. Attend orientation events, participate in faculty-organized social gatherings, and be willing to ask for help when you need it. The relationships you form during your first few weeks will dictate how smoothly you adapt to your new environment.
Bridging Classroom Theory and Practical Application
A successful university career extends beyond lecture halls. Draha describes her time at the University of Pécs as a 50/50 split between classroom theory and practical application. Seeking out extracurricular opportunities is essential for translating academic knowledge into tangible skills.
Competing in International Business Challenges
Practical experience often requires stepping outside your comfort zone. Draha represented her faculty at the International Business Challenge in Zagreb, Croatia. She also participated in the Simonyi Summer School, collaborating with students from Ohio University to develop marketing campaigns for real businesses. These experiences provided hands-on exposure to international business dynamics, cross-cultural teamwork, and high-pressure project management.
Seek out similar opportunities at your university. Case competitions, summer schools, and hackathons allow you to test your academic knowledge against real-world problems while expanding your professional network across borders.
Explore our related articles for further reading on extracurricular opportunities and international competitions available to business students.
Developing Leadership Skills Through Student Organizations
A critical turning point in Draha’s journey occurred when a professor encouraged her to apply for a Student Representative position, despite her natural shyness. Accepting that role opened the door to extensive involvement in student organizations, including ESN Pécs and the International Student Organization. She progressed from a general volunteer to Treasurer, and eventually to Vice President.
These leadership roles taught her that effective management is not solely about public speaking or visibility. It involves meticulous budget management, logistical planning, conflict resolution, and operational execution. Draha later applied these organizational skills to the iExpo student idea competition, participating three times before winning the Grand Prize. Joining student organizations provides a safe, structured environment to make mistakes, learn from them, and develop competencies that employers highly value.
Working and Studying: Managing Finances Abroad
While scholarships cover tuition and often living expenses, many international students choose to work part-time to gain additional financial independence or professional experience. During her studies, Draha worked as a cashier and waitress in Budapest, balancing a demanding academic schedule with employment obligations.
Managing work and studies requires strict time management. If you plan to work while studying in Hungary, understand the legal regulations regarding student work hours and permits. Prioritize your academic responsibilities, and ensure that your employment does not interfere with your primary goal of completing your degree. Use part-time work not just for income, but as an opportunity to improve your language skills and understand the local workplace culture.
Applying Draha’s Lessons to Your Own University of Pécs Application
Draha’s trajectory from a nervous first-year student to an International Alumni Coordinator—where she launched a faculty podcast and connected student experiences with alumni careers—demonstrates the long-term value of maximizing your time at university. Her subsequent work with the Global Startup Awards and her current pursuit of a Master’s degree in leadership and management are direct results of the foundation she built in Pécs.
Say Yes Before You Feel Ready
Imposter syndrome is common among international students. Draha’s primary advice to prospective students is to say yes before you feel ready. Whether it is applying for a competitive scholarship, running for a student government position, or entering a business case competition, you will rarely feel entirely prepared. Growth happens in the space between your current abilities and the new challenges you accept.
Submit your application today to take the first step toward your own educational journey in Hungary.
Build Genuine Professional Relationships
Networking is often misunderstood as simply collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. Draha learned that true networking is about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships. The mentors, classmates, and professors you interact with regularly are the people who will recommend you for jobs, invite you to collaborative projects, and support your professional development after graduation. Focus on cultivating deep, authentic connections rather than superficial contacts.
Studying at the University of Pécs offers a structured environment to build these connections while adapting to a diverse, multicultural setting. The university provides the framework, but the responsibility to engage lies with the student. Get involved, join organizations, participate in competitions, study diligently, travel locally, and set ambitious goals for your career.
Have questions? Write to us! We can provide more details on how to make the most of your student life in Hungary.
