University of Sopron Strengthens Ties with Erasmus Student Network Hungary at National Assembly

The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is the largest student association in Europe, acting as a crucial non-profit, international student organization. Its primary mission is to support and develop student mobility through the "Students Helping Students" principle.

In Hungary, ESN operates through multiple local sections established at various universities across the country. These local sections are coordinated nationally by ESN Hungary, which holds regular national assemblies to align strategies and share best practices. ESN sections are run by local university students who volunteer their time to:

• Integrate International Students: Organize welcome weeks, cultural events, excursions, and social activities to help incoming Erasmus and exchange students settle into the local community and university life.
• Support Outgoing Students: Provide guidance and support to local students preparing for their own mobility periods abroad.

Benefits of ESN for International Students

The presence of an ESN section provides immense benefits to international students:

• Social and Cultural Integration: ESN events break the ice and create an inclusive environment, making the transition to a new country and university much smoother.
• Practical Support: ESNers often provide essential guidance on local bureaucracy, public transport, accommodation, and navigating the university system.
• A Sense of Community: ESN ensures that international students have a built-in support network, combating loneliness and fostering lifelong friendships.

The Importance of Promoting Outgoing Mobility

For a university, promoting outgoing mobility—encouraging local students to study or train abroad—is vital. It is one of the core missions of an IRO. Students who participate in mobility programs gain:

• Enhanced Employability: They acquire valuable soft skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, intercultural communication, and independence, which are highly valued by employers.
• Academic Enrichment: Exposure to different teaching methods and academic cultures broadens their perspective.
• Personal Growth: Stepping out of their comfort zone leads to greater self-confidence and global citizenship.

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🤝 Building a Foundation for Future Collaboration

Ms. Katalin Linda Krajczár-Sári, representing the Centre for International Affairs, attended the event alongside colleagues from other prominent Hungarian IROs, including those from ELTE, Semmelweis, and Eszterházy Catholic University.

A significant part of the program involved a dedicated workshop organized by the ESNers focusing on the collaboration between IROs and local ESN sections. The discussions were incredibly insightful and "mind-opening," leading to a clear understanding of the key elements necessary for effective partnership:

• Core Factors for Effective Collaboration:
• Clear Communication: Ensuring shared understanding of goals and tasks.
• Personal (Face-to-Face) Meetings: Building mutual trust and rapport.
• Regular and Timely Manner: Maintaining consistency and promptness in actions.
• Mutual Respect: Valuing the contributions of both IRO staff and ESN student volunteers.
• Budget: Allocating appropriate financial resources to support ESN activities.

Next Steps for the University of Sopron

Inspired by the constructive dialogue and recognizing the immense value an ESN section brings to the internationalization efforts, the University of Sopron (UoS) is committing to a new direction.

The University will now work in close cooperation with interested students, providing them with the necessary resources and "giving the floor" to their initiative. The goal is to actively support the students in establishing the ESN Section of Sopron in the near future, marking an exciting new chapter for international student life at UoS.