BSM: It is definitely worth it Past Review

By (Math, Longwood University) for

BSM: Budapest - Budapest Semesters in Mathematics

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I returned from Hungary with the knowledge that I can do anything I set my mind to. No challenge is too big. My family is Hungarian, so I really cherished the opportunity to live for a short time in the country my grandfather came from. It was amazing to experience daily life in a different culture. Academically, BSM confirmed my decision to not pursue mathematics in graduate school.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

All the courses were taught in English which was definitely a plus. My professors were all very intelligent and also good at teaching. I took 3 math classes and 2 culture classes and definitely had plenty of work but also had free time to explore. Grading scales were a bit more generous to match the increased difficulty of the courses. I especially enjoyed having the opportunity to take classes that were not offered at my home university.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The communication from the Program director(s) was very good once I arrived in Hungary. My one big complaint is that I had no idea where I was going to be living or even if I was in an apartment or with a host family until I was dropped off at the door.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I wish I would have known ahead of time that I would be having a housemate. We did not really get along. I absolutely loved my host family, though. It was only a short walk to a metro stop, and I could hop on a bus right across the street from my flat. I was given breakfast every morning. I did not cook and usually ate lunch and dinner out. I did not need to bring my own sheets or towels, but I did need my own shampoo, toothpaste, etc. I had plenty of space in my room, and I think mine was on the smaller side of most people's in the program.

* Food:

I absolutely love Hungarian food. I do not have any dietary restrictions, so I was free to try anything and everything available. In general food is pretty cheap but also tasty. For really good inexpensive food avoid huge tourist attractions.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My language class went on a couple of excursions to a high end pastry shop as well as an ice cream shop. I also lived right under Castle Hill which played host to lots of cultural events throughout the semester. My favorite event was the Mangalica (furry pig) festival. Although it was extremely crowded, the food was great and the pigs were really neat. It is necessary to climb to the top of Gellert Hill at least once.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I lived in a pretty safe area. When I was out late I never had any problems. The best advice is to stay aware of your surroundings, and don't do anything stupid.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

I lived with a host who did not speak English, and getting around the city was much easier with some command of Hungarian. To me, the language school before the actual math begins is a must.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students
  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • It combined math and Hungary.
* What could be improved?
  • Pre-program communication, especially about housing assignments.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be prepared to challenge yourself and learn crazy things about yourself. Do not waste the opportunity you have; take full advantage of everything Budapest has to offer. One more thing: this is certainly an academic program. Come prepared to work hard at school, but don't overload yourself so that you can enjoy your surroundings.