You’re the only Mongolian student studying in Hungarian at your university, which is an impressive feat. What inspired you to choose such a unique language to learn?

Honestly, when I first heard Hungarian, it sounded so different and unique—it immediately caught my interest. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I’ve always believed real growth happens outside your comfort zone. I didn’t just want to study abroad—I wanted to live, think, and feel in a new culture. When I came to Hungary, I didn’t know anyone or speak the language, but I worked hard, learned, and built my own family here. It wasn’t the easiest choice, but it became the most meaningful one.

How has the Hungarian language influenced your interactions with locals and helped you feel at home here?

Learning Hungarian truly opened so many doors for me. At the beginning, it was definitely challenging, but once I could have real conversations with locals, everything changed. I was no longer just a foreigner studying here—I started to feel like part of the community.

Speaking Hungarian helped me build real relationships, whether chatting with classmates, asking for directions, or joining university events. People appreciated the effort, making me feel even more welcome. In 2023, I joined a work and travel program in the USA, going from a third country to a fourth, but Hungary already felt like home by then. The language gave me not just communication skills, but also a real sense of belonging.

Language also opens up a nation’s culture. Are there any Hungarian novels, films, plays, or cultural events that have left a lasting impression on you?

In my first year, I watched Hungarian animated movies, listened to music, followed YouTubers, and read simple books to improve my vocabulary. These helped me understand both the language and culture. At university, I took part in the Csontváry Program, attending operas, the circus, the National Theatre, and Danubia Orchestra performances—an incredible way to experience Hungarian art. My teachers also introduced me to Hungarian traditions, food, and places like museums and the Parliament. I joined film castings where Hungarians were supportive and taught me new words. Working part-time at a supermarket and running the SPAR marathon twice also gave me opportunities to improve my language skills and make friends.

Learning Hungarian isn’t easy—do you have any study tips? How do you keep your language skills sharp and integrate them into daily situations?

Honestly, sometimes I didn’t understand certain lessons, especially in subjects like economics law. So, I would go home, study all the words I didn’t know, and rewatch the lessons again and again.

At first, I could understand maybe 30%, then 50%, and later 70%—step by step, my language skills improved. My tip is simple but powerful: keep learning every single day. Even if it’s just five new words or watching a short video in Hungarian, the key is consistency and not giving up.

Also, I highly recommend asking questions—whether it’s to locals, classmates, or coworkers. People are usually very kind and happy to help. That real-life practice really made a big difference for me.

As part of a mentorship program of a leading Hungarian bank, you have gained valuable professional experience. How did speaking Hungarian enhance your growth and open up networking opportunities?

Speaking Hungarian really made a difference in my mentorship program at the bank. It allowed me to understand meetings, communicate with my mentor and colleagues, and fully participate in discussions without a translator. This boosted my confidence and helped me build strong relationships while gaining a deeper understanding of the bank’s operations. My mentor was supportive, explaining everything step by step and helping me understand the Hungarian banking system. Without the language, I wouldn’t have been able to grow this much or make these connections.

I am forever thankful to the Stipendium Hungaricum program for making this dream possible, to my university for being my second home, and to all my wonderful teachers, mentors, and colleagues for their wisdom and kindness. Above all, thank you to my beloved family — your love and belief in me have been my greatest strength.

As Buyankhishig’s journey shows, mastering Hungarian is a rewarding but challenging endeavour. For those looking to follow a similar path, the Practice Your Hungarian online course offers valuable support in improving language skills, whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to refine your abilities. With practical lessons and expert guidance, it’s an excellent resource for anyone ready to embrace the Hungarian language and culture. Start your own language journey today!