Maria Donica

E-mail: mariadonica14@gmail.com

Hello everyone! I'm Maria - a first-year International Relations BA student at ELTE, here on the Stipendium Hungaricum adventure from the heart of Republic of Moldova! Passionate about feminism and human rights, I love debating world issues as much as I love getting lost in nature, a great film or a dance floor. If you are reading this, let's match on Letterboxd! :)) If you have any questions and feel like I am the one that can help you, please don't hesitate to send me an email!

WHAT STOOD OUT TO YOU ABOUT ELTE?

Simple: it's the best- I took look at the stats! ELTE attracts thousands of international students from over 120 countries every year, so I figured they have the experience, the academic excellence, and the vibrant student life to turn ambition into achievement. They’ve been shaping minds for centuries, so I knew they could handle mine too! However, it wasn’t until the online interview that I knew for sure. It all felt so real, and then it hit me—this was everything I’d hoped for. They hadn’t selected me yet, but I’d already made my choice.

WHAT MAKES STUDYING AT ELTE SO GREAT?

It’s like this perfect mix of old-school wisdom and modern-day hustle. Sure, some universities have great professors and fancy libraries too, but ELTE does it with a bit more flair. Picture this: you’re sitting in a lecture where the professor casually drops references to ancient Hungarian history and then segues into the latest global trends. It’s a university where you’re encouraged to ask questions, challenge ideas, and debate with students from literally every corner of the globe. It’s not just about textbooks here; it’s about bringing the world into your classroom.

WHAT ARE / WERE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?

One of my biggest challenges has been learning to think differently. In high school, everything was neatly boxed in—structured essays, predefined ideas. But at ELTE, they encourage you to break free and dive into your own arguments, critically engaging with material like you would in the real world. It’s exciting, but also a bit intimidating at first! Another challenge is managing time. There are just so many opportunities and activities that it’s hard to say no. Sometimes I end up with more on my plate than I can handle, juggling everything from assignments to spontaneous adventures. But hey, it’s all part of the learning curve!

HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES?

I started embracing the freedom to explore my own ideas, even if it meant stepping outside my comfort zone. I realized that there’s no one “right” way to approach a topic, and the beauty of university is being able to test new perspectives. I began engaging more in discussions, allowing myself to challenge assumptions, and using feedback to refine my own takes.

As for managing time, I got better at prioritizing and learning to say no (a tough one!). I started using planners and calendars to map out my week, giving me more control over my schedule. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m getting there!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ELTE IN THREE WORDS?

Excellence, Diversity, Opportunity.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?

Even though my passion for politics has always been a defining trait, I knew my first degree had to offer more than just a deep dive into one field. International Relations at ELTE does just that—it’s an intellectual buffet where theories of political science, economics, law, history, constitutionalism, and regional studies all have a seat at the table. This program isn’t just about memorizing theories; it’s about understanding how the world clicks (or clashes). By the time I graduate, I’ll have the toolkit to navigate any path I choose, whether it’s diplomacy, policy-making, or something completely unexpected. Knowledge is power, after all!

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT ELTE?

Take that first step—it’s a leap of faith. The first day, the first lecture, the first exam, the first new friend—it all feels like a whirlwind. But soon enough, everything flows into the hands of someone who’s already experienced it: you. ELTE will be there to guide you, but the real journey begins when you step out of your comfort zone. Join discussions, challenge ideas, explore Budapest, and let yourself grow. Before you know it, you'll look back and realize how far you’ve come, you’ll be the one giving advice to future students!