Chen Zhishan
Study Program
Degree Program
Degree program
Early Childhood Education BA
Country
China
Scholarship
self-funded
Period of studies at ELTE
-
Period of studies at ELTE - comment
(expected)
Area of interest
Education
E-mail: gg5pz6@student.elte.hu
Hello everyone! I’m 27 years old and currently pursuing my third degree at ELTE. My academic journey has taken me across China, Finland, Italy, Morocco, and Hungary. Studying in different countries has broadened my perspective and strengthened my belief that learning is truly a lifelong journey.
I have a passion for traveling and enjoy experiencing different ways of life. I value the opportunity to explore and grow within diverse cultural environments. Staying curious about the unknown and maintaining enthusiasm for the world around me has always been a defining part of who I am. To me, being a student is not just a phase of life, but a way of living—one that embraces continuous discovery and endless possibilities.
"So don’t be afraid to try, to create, and to take initiative. University is not only about learning — it’s about discovering what you’re capable of."
WHAT STOOD OUT TO YOU ABOUT ELTE?
The entire university has such a youthful and vibrant atmosphere! I still remember when I was an Erasmus exchange student at ELTE three years ago. We received welcome packages prepared for all exchange students, which included a calendar, a notebook, a canvas tote bag, and more.
I still use the ELTE tote bag to this day—it has become a small but meaningful reminder of my time here and the wonderful memories I made.
WHAT MAKES STUDYING AT ELTE SO GREAT?
I would definitely say the location and the international opportunities are two of the biggest highlights! Budapest has plenty of affordable flight connections to many countries, which is perfect for students who love traveling and exploring new places (like me!). It makes weekend trips and cultural adventures surprisingly easy.
On top of that, the university has a wide network of international partners. If you’re thinking about going on an exchange, you’ll find options almost all over the world. It’s a great chance to step out of your comfort zone and experience something completely new.
WHAT ARE / WERE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?
I faced a significant challenge during my studies. Before officially starting my program, I found out that I was pregnant. This meant that I gave birth while continuing my studies. At the same time, I did not want to miss any classes, and I also needed to complete my kindergarten internship.
Balancing time management, physical recovery, and mental pressure was extremely challenging. It was not an easy period, but it strengthened my resilience and self-discipline in ways I never expected.
HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES?
Of course, I received an incredible amount of support throughout this journey. ELTE has policies that support student mothers, including the possibility to apply for personalized study arrangements. My professors were extremely understanding and helpful — they offered alternative assignments that I could complete from home and allowed me to participate in classes online when needed.
My classmates were also very supportive, regularly updating me on class information and sharing their notes so that I would not miss anything important.
In addition, our faculty even has a dedicated mother-and-baby room equipped with essentials such as a high chair, baby carrier, changing table, and toys. I have even brought my baby to class before, and it was completely welcomed — especially since my field of study is related to early childhood education, which made the experience feel even more natural and meaningful.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ELTE IN THREE WORDS?
Vibrant, Welcoming, Supportive
HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?
First of all, this journey has helped me understand my own child on a much deeper level. What I learn in class doesn’t just stay in textbooks — I see it come alive in my everyday life as a mother. It has made me more confident, more patient, and more aware in the way I support my child’s growth. At the same time, my studies have given me valuable opportunities to complete internships in both public and private nurseries in Hungary. Being able to connect theory with real-life practice has been incredibly meaningful. These experiences have not only shaped my professional skills but also strengthened my passion for working in early childhood education.
DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT ELTE?
This is your platform to shine.
Since last year, ELTE has joined the Hungarian Startup University Program (HSUP), which aims to introduce university students in Hungary to innovation, entrepreneurship, and the world of startups through a shared educational platform. It’s an exciting opportunity to step beyond your regular studies and explore new possibilities.
Through programs like HSUP, you can connect with students from other universities, exchange ideas, and even turn your own ideas into real projects. And this is just one example — there are many similar opportunities waiting for you here.
So don’t be afraid to try, to create, and to take initiative. University is not only about learning — it’s about discovering what you’re capable of.