International Life Gets Underway at the University of Sopron

The programme began with the University Orientation Day, where first-year students from all over the world received important information about university life, available services and everyday life in Sopron.

This was followed by the Intercultural Information Session, which introduced participants to the work of the International Office and StudentHelp. Mentors and international peer supporters also presented themselves, offering students someone to turn to with everyday questions, difficulties or simply for a friendly conversation. The session also covered university life, local customs and everyday practices.

Discovering Sopron Through Games

During the Scavenger Hunt – City Discovery Game, newcomers explored Sopron's historic city centre through fun and interactive challenges. Teams searched for hidden spots, interesting stories and special details while getting to know one another and building new connections. In this way, the city became more than just a new place to live: it became a shared experience waiting to be discovered.

Well-being Matters, Too

The Self-Awareness Sessions have also started, offering participants an opportunity to meet once a month. The sessions are led by Erzsébet Szaniszló, the colleague responsible for student well-being. The aim is to create a supportive and open environment where students can reflect on themselves, recharge and get to know one another better.

Practical Skills for Career Development

The Career Counselling Workshop focused on preparing students for life after graduation and for taking up student jobs. Led by Zsófia Szála, International Coordinator, the workshop addressed practical topics such as preparing a European-style CV, writing a motivation letter, attending job interviews and negotiating salaries.

Thanks to its practical approach, participants gained not only useful information but also concrete tools they can apply in their future job searches.

Freshmen's Day – Connecting Across Cultures

One of the highlights of the first few weeks was the now-traditional Freshmen's Day, which welcomed both first-year and senior students. The afternoon provided an opportunity for newcomers to become part of the university community and meet students who had already been studying in Sopron for some time in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Following an information session, the evening continued with a special presentation celebrating cultural traditions. As part of a new programme series, students involved in preserving the traditions of the University of Sopron aim to bring Hungarian and local Sopron traditions closer to international students and showcase the values this community preserves and passes on to future generations.

The presentation was followed by country presentations, singing and dancing, giving the international community the chance to share its own cultures on stage. The evening concluded with a lively Hungarian folk dance event featuring the Ürmös Folk Dance Ensemble.

The event was full of energy and good spirits, and it was especially encouraging to see so many Hungarian students joining in. Even after the official programme ended, many participants stayed to chat and get to know their international fellow students. Freshmen's Day truly became a shared university event, demonstrating that cultural diversity does not divide people but creates new opportunities for connection.

And This Is Just the Beginning…

The events of the first few weeks show that supporting international students at the University of Sopron means much more than helping them with their studies and administrative matters. The aim is to build an inclusive community where students from abroad can connect, grow, ask for help, enjoy their free time and feel more at home in Sopron.

Further community, cultural and well-being initiatives are planned throughout the academic year. With the new academic year, international life has truly begun at the University of Sopron.