Moving abroad is exciting, but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. When I first arrived in Budapest, everything felt unfamiliar: the language, the streets, even the small everyday routines I used to take for granted. There were moments of loneliness and homesickness that I hadn’t fully expected. But over time, I realized something important—feeling this way is completely normal and also not permeant. And more importantly, I discovered that at ELTE, you’re never truly alone.

One of the first things that helped me settle in was realizing just how international the university is. In my classes, I met people from all over the world—sometimes from places I had only ever read about, or honestly not even read about. It felt comforting to know that everyone was going through similar experiences: adjusting, learning, and trying to find their place. After all, misery loves company. That shared understanding made it much easier to connect. 

While our ambassador program is mostly concerned with helping prospective students interested in coming to ELTE, you should not worry about your situation when you arrive. There are just so many organizations dedicated to helping students administratively, logistically, and even emotionally.

What truly makes a difference, though, is the strong sense of community among students. I personally benefited a lot from student organizations that are built on the idea of “students helping students.” For example, the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) organizes events and connects exchange students with buddies who help them navigate both university life and the city. Having someone to ask simple questions—like where to buy groceries or how public transport works—made my first weeks much less stressful.

I also got to know people through mentoring programs like HOOK, where students support each other academically and personally. It didn’t feel formal or forced—it felt like having someone genuinely looking out for you. And then there’s ISAC, which creates opportunities to meet new people through social events. Some of my favorite memories so far come from these gatherings—I still vividly remember their Christmas secret Santa event.

One event that no one should miss is a joint event by all those bodies, which happens every spring. It was amazing to see so many cultures represented in one place—through food, music, and conversations. This event, jointly organized by HOOK and ISAC, is called the Cultural Connection Day, and it is a must-attend event.

Speaking of the classroom, another thing I’ve come to appreciate is how experienced the professors are in working with international students. They understand that we all come from different educational and cultural backgrounds, and they create an environment where those differences are respected and even valued. This has made my academic journey not just about learning a subject, but also about gaining new perspectives.

Looking back, I can say that while moving abroad was challenging at first, it has also been incredibly rewarding. The international community at ELTE turned what could have been a lonely experience into something meaningful and full of connection. I didn’t just find a university here—I found a community that made Budapest feel like home.

Still in doubt? Check this picture taken from ELTE’s Faculty of Humanities campus.