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At the 2024 Hungarian International Coordinators’ Annual Meeting, several coordinators were recognized for their outstanding contributions and dedication to advancing the internationalization of Hungarian higher education. We spoke with three awardees about their experiences with the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme.

Whether a newcomer just starting to navigate the application process or a seasoned coordinator offering meaningful improvements, their expertise drives the continuous enhancement of the scholarship program year after year. It is crucial to recognize and highlight their invaluable contributions.

This time, we highlight Ágnes Csimma, an international coordinator at the Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University. Ágnes has been honoured with the Award for New Professionals in recognition of her exceptional contributions in this role. Since 2022, she has been actively involved with the Stipendium Hungaricum Programme, providing guidance and support for international students.

What makes the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme important?

Many Hungarian universities—including Pázmány ITK—offer education of a quality that rivals institutions in other countries, whether in Europe or beyond. The Stipendium Hungaricum provides an opportunity for Hungarian universities to gain recognition worldwide through scholarship holders.

For many international students, the Stipendium Hungaricum is a significant opportunity to advance their lives. Thanks to their studies here, they gain access to opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach in their home countries—this is especially true for women.

Do you have any special story or memory related to the program that you would share?

I recall one of our Stipendium Hungaricum female students during her first weeks. She came from a very different culture and environment, and in the first few days, she barely dared to go out alone and relied heavily on her mentor’s help. She even seriously considered going back home and giving up. However, as the orientation week progressed—with the help of the mentors, other students, and staff—she became more at ease. By the end of the week, at the traditional goulash party, she told her mentor that she was staying and was happy to be here. Now, with only two semesters left, she is completing her studies with excellent results.  I believe she is a perfect example of how the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship broadens students’ horizons and opens up great opportunities.

Ágnes also shared her pride in the achievements of SH students at Pázmány ITK, including the first-ever recipient of the National Higher Education Scholarship in 2024. She values the growing involvement of SH students in the international mentoring community and cherishes the strong personal connections she has built with them, as they openly share their joys and challenges with her.

At the award ceremony, Ágnes was honored for her remarkable achievements in a tribute that praised her dedication and conscientious approach to her work. She was recognized for enhancing program implementation with innovative ideas, such as revitalizing the university's international mentoring community. The tribute also highlighted her motivation, enthusiasm, and drive—qualities that are clearly evident in her collaboration with the Tempus Public Foundation, for which she received special appreciation.

Last modified: 27-02-2025