Maria Dandarova
Study program: Germanic Studies, Specialized in Netherlandistic Studies BA
Country: Russian Federation
Scholarship:
Period of studies at ELTE: 2018.09.01 - 2021.06.30
"Studying at ELTE will definitely become an unforgettable experience for you, first of all, because of the magnificent international environment at the campus."
What stood out to you about ELTE?
The main reason why I chose ELTE is the prestige for which the university is famous for. Without any doubt, ELTE is the best university in Hungary and among the best ones in Europe when it comes to the field of Humanities. The number of partner universities is vast, which is a bonus if you are considering taking part in the Erasmus+ programme or in another exchange program while studying here at ELTE. Overall, the range of opportunities you will get by enrolling at the university is so vast, you might find it hard at first to choose from all the opportunities.
What makes studying at ELTE so great?
Studying at ELTE will definitely become an unforgettable experience for you, first of all, because of the magnificent international environment at the campus. There are so many interesting people from different countries and with various cultural backgrounds to become friends with! The university atmosphere is freeing and inspiring. Also, I must mention that professors treat you as an equal, they are very cheerful, welcoming and open to have a friendly discussion with you!
What are / were your challenges in your study program?
The most challenging aspect of acquiring a degree in Dutch Studies is, I think, the intensity of the course. At the end of your studies, you are to write your thesis in Dutch, so you should put a lot of effort into studying the language itself in the first and second year so that you are capable of speaking and writing on a very sophisticated level when you graduate. Also, you may find it difficult in the beginning that there are mostly Hungarian students following this program and a couple of the courses are given in Hungarian, but everything will be in the right place eventually. Getting a BA degree in Dutch Studies definitely has more pros than cons!
How did you overcome these challenges?
Everybody at the department of Dutch Studies is very welcoming and friendly. I managed to make good friends with all my Hungarian classmates and I find very nice, because now I don’t only have international friends but also a lot of local friends. Professors at the department couldn’t be any nicer, they will offer you to follow the courses given in Hungarian in English instead in an individual manner, which is really convenient. As for the intensity of the course, you will get used to it, it is a bit challenging but I believe that it helps you become a professional with a very good knowledge of the language. So, the effort you put into your studies is for your own good!
How would you describe ELTE in three words?
My three words of choice are: prestigious, international and inspiring
How do you think your degree will help you in your life and career?
I am convinced that with a diploma in Dutch Studies you will be able to find a nice job. This field is quite small and there are not a lot of professionals out there, so as a native of another language and a speaker of English (plus the Dutch language) you will be praised on the market. There is a vast range of possible professions from which you can choose, but you can also dive into your studies and continue with getting an MA degree and a PhD later. It all depends on you and what you want to do in the future, but Dutch Studies is definitely a good choice if you are interested in linguistics and different cultures. The Department of Dutch Studies at ELTE is the best one in Hungary and one of the best ones in Europe, the alumni are known for their high-quality knowledge of the field and fine skills.
Do you have any recommendations for future students at ELTE?
I would say go for it! Studying at ELTE is totally worth it, you will not regret it for a second. I am very happy with my program of choice and with the university in general. As I said before, there are so many opportunities waiting for you, you just need to apply to ELTE to be able to experience every single one of them.