Barnabás was created back in 2010 for the "Become the Marketing Director of the GTK!" contest by Viktor Berki, Noémi Bagi, and Krisztián Holecska, who went on to win the contest and began their careers as marketing interns for the Faculty. The choice of a bear character was made because, alongside the bull, it is a significant symbol in the economic world. Although many criticized it for symbolizing a bearish market, they stood by it because the bear represents much more. In heraldry, it is often used as a symbol of authority, strength, and confidence. This is what they wanted to give to the GTK, as it is what they received from the Faculty.

The idea came from the fact that many universities and faculties visited high schools to introduce themselves, promote their programs, and answer any questions. However, this technique was considered outdated. Even then, students were bombarded with so much information and stimuli that they were no longer interested in presentations held by faculties. The marketing team felt that different tools needed to be used alongside the tried-and-true methods. Tools that would spark students' interest in GTK. From then on, whenever they visited high schools to give presentations, Barnabás, the mascot bear, accompanied them. A student dressed in a bear costume roamed the high school hallways, handing out flyers while wearing the classic purple GTK t-shirt.

There were two main goals for creating Barnabás. Firstly, to spark interest in the Faculty, and secondly, to express the youthful, cheerful atmosphere of our Faculty. Their plans included the idea that a mascot is a truly 21st-century concept, and many Western universities use similar symbols for community building.

The mascot bear was hugely popular, especially during high school roadshows, and the Faculty's students always welcomed it with great joy when it appeared at various events. Although its popularity has waned a bit over the years, it still plays an important role in the life of the GTK. This is why it is important for new students to know who Barnabás is.

We have collected some videos featuring our favorite bear for you. If you are curious, check them out!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brAbdjJkTYU

https://fb.watch/seCUMFyRlW/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zR7AZD8-DgU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxUFgcMHywE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LERp018KuU