Building Bridges: Connecting Cultures at Corvinus

Hey there, future adventurers! I’m İlayda, and I’m here to share my whirlwind journey from Turkey to Budapest, where I’m currently pursuing my master’s degree in Public Policy and Management at Corvinus University.

My Budapest adventure kicked off two years ago when I embarked on an Erasmus exchange. Now, let me be real with you, amidst all the fun during Erasmus, something profound happened—I discovered a newfound sense of satisfaction that transcended mere enjoyment.

After returning to Turkey, I took a year to ponder my next move. I soul-searched, weighed my options, and envisioned the impact each choice would have on my life. And you know what? The value of immersing myself in an international environment, stepping out of my comfort zone, and pursuing education abroad was immeasurable. That’s why I found myself back in Budapest, bridging the gap between Turkey and Corvinus University.

Now, let me paint a picture for you. Picture a bridge—one end firmly planted in Turkey, the other reaching out to the vibrant city of Budapest. This bridge? It’s my lifeline — a conduit for endless opportunities, growth, and adventure. Here, amidst the hustle and bustle of international student life, I study, collaborate on projects, explore new horizons, and make lifelong friendships with people from every corner of the globe.

I get it—this might all sound a bit abstract to you. But trust me when I say that this journey isn’t just about ticking boxes on a bucket list; it’s about igniting a fire within yourself—the kind of fire that drives you to push boundaries, chase dreams, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.
So, to all you young dreamers out there, contemplating your next move—I urge you to take the leap. Embrace the unknown, step out of your comfort zone, and let the world become your classroom. Because trust me, the experiences, friendships, and personal growth that await you on the other side are nothing short of life-changing.

Are you ready to embark on your own Budapest adventure? The bridge is waiting—take the first step and watch as your world expands in ways you never thought possible.

See you on the other side!

İlayda Erdoğdu
International Student Ambassador, MSc Public Policy and Management, Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship

2 Dec 2024