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The ultimate freshman’s guide to Budapest
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Starting university is such a big first for everyone that at the beginning it might seem a wee bit frightening. Exploring and interacting with a new community is the cornerstone of the freshman experience. HVG put together a little freshman’s guide to help you get prepared for university life in Budapest.
Why should someone pick Budapest for their studies?
Firstly, it’s the capital of Hungary so it’s always buzzing with life. Secondly, Budapest has the highest number of universities out of all the Hungarian cities, and consequently the biggest community of students.
What is the most useful advice that a freshman can take to make the most out of their uni years in Budapest?
It’s very easy to get lost in the crowd or occasionally feel small. Be open to the new experiences and the others around you. It’s as good a time as any to make friends, and if you join a community, it will make it even easier for you. These communities can also be a great help, not only in making friends but also in getting the notes for that one lecture that you slept through.
Read more: Budapest among the best European cities for studying abroad!
What major university events should a freshman be aware of?
The answer varies from university to university. There is always the freshers’ week and those orientation programmes that every university organises for their own students, like BME Days. There are other parties peppered throughout the semester, and you should absolutely try to attend as many as you can.
What are the hottest places for students to go out?
There are two types of going out in the Budapest night, that will be mentioned here. Dive bars get the first mention, since they all have their authentic, ruin bar vibe and can be specific to the university or the area. For example, students from ELTE and BTK usually frequent the Könyvtár Klub. The second mention are the nightclubs. There are a couple of extremely popular places, such as Instant-Fogas, Morrison’s 2, Turbina and many others.