Following a kind invitation from Semmelweis University, I embarked on a trip to Budapest to gain a deeper understanding of student activities related to the topic of well-being.
I had the pleasure of attending a Hungarian Students’ Association event, with live music provided by the students of Semmelweis. I also met the representatives of the International Students’ Association (ISSA), the German-Speaking Students’ Association (DSVS) and the Hungarian Students’ Association (HÖK).
I met with Semmelweis’ EUniWell Management Team. We had a fruitful discussion regarding student participation in EUniWell, and the success of the Semmelweis EUniWell representatives in initiatives such as the Seed Funding Call. The hard work of many past and current Semmelweis students, including Hana Idelbi, Sloan Kudrinko, Ingy Jabri and colleagues will contribute significantly to the upcoming Mental Health Symposium.
It is obvious that Semmelweis University’s dedication to the well-being of students and staff extends far beyond the famous thermal baths of Budapest! I was shown plans for a new building dedicated to student services and student well-being by Dr. Miklós Kellermayer, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and EUniWell Board Member. The building is designed to complement existing student services and spaces and will provide support to students across Semmelweis University.
I was also privileged to witness a White Coat Ceremony, an event marking the beginning of students’ clinical years. Friends and family were invited to celebrate the dedication and the success of students.
Between visits to St Stephen’s Basilica and the Moorish style Dohany and Rumbach synagogues, I had an informative campus tour with Félix, Vice-President of the Hungarian Students’ Association (HÖK). Félix kindly arranged a visit to the top of the second tallest building in Budapest, the NET building, and showed me the many student spaces in the NET and EOK buildings. I was also introduced to traditional Hungarian cuisine including lángos and various soups.
This visit to Semmelweis was useful as it gave me the opportunity to appreciate the commitment of the University and the resources it dedicates to the well-being of students. Many thanks to all the staff and students who made my visit a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
