METU Welcomes International Students for the Fall 2024-25 Semester

On the 26th of September Budapest Metropolitan University (METU) rolled out the red carpet for nearly 100 international students, celebrating the start of the Fall 2024-25 semester with a lively and heartwarming Welcome Event. Held at the university’s campus, the gathering brought together students from across the globe, marking the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable semester of learning, cultural exchange, and friendship.

The event was headlined by Mr. Peter Rada, Vice Rector for International Affairs, whose welcoming speech set the tone for the evening. Known for his warm and engaging style, Mr. Rada greeted the students with words of encouragement and practical advice for making the most of their time in Hungary. “This is not just the beginning of a new academic journey,” he said. “It’s a chance to experience a new culture, make lifelong connections, and discover more about yourself along the way.”

Following his address, students enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere, mingling over glasses of champagne and a selection of delicious food. The event offered a perfect setting for the new arrivals to get acquainted not only with each other but also with METU’s international coordinators and student mentors. These mentors, an integral part of METU’s support system, play a crucial role in helping new students settle into university life. They also organized fun icebreaker games to help break down barriers and spark the beginnings of friendships that are sure to flourish throughout the semester.

This fall, METU’s international student body is a vibrant mix of nationalities, representing countries across Europe and beyond. From within Europe, students have arrived from places as diverse as Portugal, Norway, and, as always, Germany and Spain, two of the university’s most frequent Erasmus partners. Beyond the continent, METU welcomed students from Indonesia, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Azerbaijan, and Japan, adding to the rich cultural diversity on campus.

Academically, the students are pursuing a variety of programs. While tourism has drawn the smallest number of participants, the Business, Art, and Communication programs are well-represented, with a roughly equal number of students enrolled in each.

The Welcome Event was more than just an introduction to METU – it was a celebration of the university’s commitment to fostering global connections and cultural exchange. The evening encapsulated the spirit of inclusivity and adventure that defines the Erasmus experience, with students bonding over shared excitement and the promise of new opportunities.

As the international cohort embarks on their journey in Budapest, METU hopes that their time in Hungary will be transformative, leaving them with not only academic growth but also treasured memories and friendships that will span borders.

With the new semester underway, METU’s international students are poised to dive into the adventure of studying in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, ready to make the most of the months ahead.