Having Hungarian  ancestry, Eleonora always felt connected to the country and its culture. When the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship gave her the chance to study at a dance university, she embraced the opportunity to follow her passion while exploring her heritage. Now a proud Student Excellence awardee, she shares her experience studying at the Hungarian Dance University and turning her dreams into reality.

What inspired you to pursue studies abroad?

Since I was young, I always dreamed of continuing my dance studies at university, but this was not possible in my home country [Serbia] as no such university exists. A long time ago, I heard about the Hungarian Dance University and started following their work online. I realized that I wanted to be part of their student community because they teach techniques I never had the chance to learn in high school. Additionally, I always believed that studying abroad would bring me exciting experiences and opportunities.

What other destinations were you considering, and why did you decide to choose Hungary?

To be honest, Hungary was my first choice from the beginning, so I didn’t consider any other country or university. Hungary has always had a special place in my heart, and I saw this opportunity as a chance to connect with my roots and Hungarian traditions.

Did your heritage also impact your decision to study in Hungary?

Growing up in a Hungarian-speaking household definitely shaped my connection to the culture. I definitely wanted to explore my heritage more deeply and experience the country firsthand.

What was your biggest challenge here as an international student?

At the beginning of my studies, I struggled to connect with my Hungarian classmates. Even though I have a Hungarian-speaking family, I never learned the language properly. I find Hungarian to be a very difficult language to learn.

How do you deal with the feeling of homesickness?

I’m fortunate to have my sister in Budapest, who has supported me from the very beginning of my journey. Because of this, I rarely feel homesick, but when I do, I can visit my family and friends for the weekend since they’re only a few hours away.

What is your favourite thing about this country?

I love the multicultural environment of Hungray, especially in Budapest. There are countless events and places where I can meet people from different cultural backgrounds. Another highlight is the food, especially gulyásleves. Nothing beats traditional, homemade gulyásleves!

Besides meeting at the university, what other opportunities did you have to make new connections and meet fellow students?

This year, I had the wonderful opportunity to receive an Excellence Award from Stipendium Hungaricum. At the event, I met many amazing students from across Hungary, with whom I’m still in contact.

Could you share with us your best memory of Hungary?

It will always be my first State Foundation Day of Hungary celebration. The fireworks were breathtaking— I’ve never seen a more organised or beautiful event. For the past few years, I’ve stayed in Hungary for the 20th of August just to see the fireworks, and I’m always amazed at how different and unique they are every time.

How did the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship contribute to your professional and personal growth? Would you recommend it to your peers?

The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship allowed me to fully focus on my studies and dance without worrying about tuition fees or living costs. I hope to continue my education by enrolling in a master’s program as a scholarship holder. I’ve already recommended the scholarship to several friends in Serbia and will continue to do so in the future.

Would you choose Hungary again as your study destination?

Most certainly, yes!

 

The Stipendium Hungaricum Student Excellence Award and the Hungarian Excellence Award is given in every academic year to those who have excelled academically and contributed to the Stipendium Hungaricum community, and highlight the impact of dedication and hard work. In 2024 the awards were presented by Miklós Lengyel, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Richárd Bodrogi, General Director of Tempus Public Foundation at the Stipendium Hungaricum Welcome Event. Check out the interviews from the 2023 Stipendium Hungaricum Student Excellence Awardees.