The tradition of welcoming newly admitted students to the University of Szeged’s Faculty of Business Administration and Management continued this year with a series of engaging events aimed at helping freshmen settle into university life. Led by Dr. Ildikó Pusztai-Varga, Director of International Affairs, and Melinda Kovács, International Relations Coordinator, the mentor team worked diligently to ensure a smooth transition for the new students. These events not only introduced them to Szeged and the university but also fostered a sense of community among the freshmen and mentors alike.
The first major event was the Orientation Day, which took place on the 12th of September. This day was dedicated to welcoming the international students, offering essential information about the university, and helping them navigate the beginning of their academic journey. The day began with presentations about the faculty, university regulations, and student services, followed by an introduction to the campus. Freshmen students had the opportunity to meet with staff members and their mentors, ask questions, and connect with their peers. Afterward, a casual meet-and-greet session allowed the students to relax and get to know each other better in a more informal setting. The day helped establish a supportive atmosphere, making the students feel more at ease in their new environment.
One of the most anticipated events for freshmen was the treasure hunt, held later in the month. This fun-filled activity, designed to introduce students to Szeged while encouraging team bonding, involved a series of games and challenges. Divided into groups, the freshmen explored the city, stopping at key landmarks and completing tasks that earned them points. The event was not only a way to discover Szeged's hidden gems but also an opportunity for students to work together and form friendships through shared experiences. By the end of the treasure hunt, all participants gathered in Erzsébet Park, where the winning team was crowned and everyone celebrated with pizza. The event was a perfect blend of exploration, teamwork, and fun.
To show appreciation for the hard work of the mentor team, a special cultural program was organized on September 27th. The mentors were invited to the Alsóvárosi Folklore Museum, an old Hungarian house that serves as a museum. Under the guidance of Dr. Ildikó Pusztai-Varga and Melinda Kovács, the mentors participated in a traditional Hungarian baking session, where they learned how to make "kalács" (a type of Hungarian bread). The event was a relaxing and informal afternoon, filled with laughter, shared stories, and a deeper connection between the mentors. Along with the baking, the group also tasted a traditional Hungarian drink called "szörp" (fruit syrup mixed with water), offering them a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage.
As a final highlight of the welcome activities, the annual Freshmen Trip took place on October 5th, 2024. This year, the destination was Mórahalom, a small town located about 30 minutes from Szeged. The head mentor team organized the itinerary and activities for the day, making it a memorable experience for all participants. The trip began with a visit to Rétesház, where students sampled a traditional Hungarian pastry called "rétes." After enjoying this delicious treat, the group visited Bivalyrezervátum, a buffalo reserve at Lake Nagyszéksós, where Dr. Ildikó shared fascinating historical insights about the area. The day continued with games and exploration at Mini Hungary, a park featuring miniature replicas of famous Hungarian and neighboring country buildings. The head mentor team shared interesting facts about each structure, making the experience both