From Chile to Central Europe

Choosing a Path Beyond Borders

For Antonio, choosing where to study was never just about earning a degree. It was about growth, exposure, and discovering who he could become in an international environment. Originally from Chile, Antonio arrived at the University of Pécs with curiosity, ambition, and a willingness to step outside his comfort zone.

Before committing to Business Administration and Management, Antonio spent a year studying engineering. With a strong interest in mathematics, engineering initially seemed like the logical choice. However, over time, and with guidance from his family, he realized that business could offer the same analytical challenges while opening doors to a wider range of opportunities. That realization ultimately led him to Hungary and to the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Pécs.

The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship made this journey possible, but what truly convinced Antonio was the university’s international atmosphere. Having already spent a year in New Zealand during high school, he understood the value of studying abroad and learning alongside people from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Pécs felt like the right place to continue that journey.

Discovering an International Community

When Antonio first arrived in Pécs, he admits that he had barely heard of many of the countries his fellow students came from. What started as simple curiosity soon turned into meaningful connections. Group projects, classroom discussions, and shared experiences helped him gradually build friendships with students from all over the world.

Over time, those interactions reshaped his worldview. Today, Antonio proudly says that he knows people from nearly every corner of the globe. More importantly, many of those connections became close friendships. Some of the people he met during his studies are now his best friends, and although they are scattered across different countries, he hopes to reunite with them whenever possible.

For Antonio, this international environment was not just enjoyable, it was transformative. Being surrounded by different cultures, accents, and perspectives taught him adaptability, empathy, and open-mindedness, skills that continue to shape both his professional and personal life.

Academic Excellence and a Turning Point in the Classroom

From an academic perspective, the Business Administration and Management program challenged Antonio in ways that pushed him to grow. The workload demanded consistency, discipline, and active engagement, qualities he was eager to develop.

One course that played a particularly important role in his journey was Probability and Statistics, taught by Mrs. Galambos Dr. habil. Mónika Tiszberger. Antonio stood out in her class through his active participation and genuine interest in the subject. He was not just focused on passing exams, but on truly understanding the material.

His engagement did not go unnoticed. Recognizing his potential and dedication, Dr. Tiszberger later approached Antonio with an opportunity that would mark the beginning of his professional development at the university. She invited him to join the faculty as a student assistant, giving him the chance to gain hands-on experience while still completing his studies.

For Antonio, this moment was a clear reminder that effort matters. It reinforced his belief that the university notices students who are proactive and willing to go the extra mile.

Learning by Doing as a Student Assistant

Working as a student assistant allowed Antonio to experience the university from a completely new perspective. His role involved supporting international projects and contributing to initiatives connected to the EDUC European Digital University Alliance.

Through this work, Antonio collaborated with international teams and participated in meetings, workshops, and professional events alongside experienced academics and administrators. He also had the opportunity to travel to countries such as Germany, Italy, and the Czech Republic, further strengthening his international exposure.

At first, stepping into professional environments alongside senior colleagues felt intimidating. However, these experiences quickly helped him build confidence. He learned how to communicate effectively in multicultural settings, manage responsibilities, and contribute meaningfully to team discussions. These skills later proved invaluable when entering the job market.

Reflecting on this period, Antonio often emphasizes an important lesson. The University of Pécs provides many opportunities, but students must actively seek them out. The institution opens doors, but it is up to students to walk through them.

Turning Student Experiences into Entrepreneurial Ideas

Antonio’s entrepreneurial journey took shape during his participation in the Hungarian Startup University Program. Together with Muhammad and Sarah, he co-founded an AI-powered HealthTech platform designed to support international students in navigating local healthcare systems.

With the support of the university, including mentoring, structured guidance, and access to entrepreneurial resources, their idea evolved into a functioning platform. Working with an international team taught Antonio how diversity enhances creativity and problem-solving. Each team member brought unique perspectives shaped by their own cultural and academic backgrounds.

For Antonio, this experience highlighted how universities can act as incubators for innovation. The Faculty of Business and Economics did not just teach theory; it provided a space where ideas could grow into real-world solutions.

Life Beyond the Classroom

University life for Antonio was not limited to academics and work. He actively participated in extracurricular activities, including joining the university swimming team. Sports offered a valuable balance to his studies and helped him connect with students outside his program. These activities contributed to a sense of belonging and reinforced the idea that university is as much about personal development as it is about academic achievement. The friendships, shared challenges, and everyday moments in Pécs became some of his most cherished memories.

Stepping into the Professional World

After graduating, Antonio successfully secured a full-time sales position in Hungary. His interest in sales developed naturally through presentations, teamwork, startup pitching, and real-life problem-solving experiences during his studies.

Sales appealed to him because of its dynamic nature and the direct connection between effort and results. His international background, combined with strong communication skills and adaptability, gave him a competitive advantage in the job market.

Looking ahead, Antonio is considering pursuing a master’s degree abroad while continuing to build his professional career. His journey remains driven by curiosity and a desire to keep learning in international environments.

A Message to Future Students

Reflecting on his time at the University of Pécs, Antonio describes it as a period of profound growth. Academically, professionally, and personally, the experience exceeded his expectations.

His advice to current and prospective students is simple yet powerful. Take initiative, stay curious, and do not wait for opportunities to come to you. The university offers countless possibilities, but it is your responsibility to recognize them and act.

From Chile to Central Europe, Antonio’s journey is a testament to the impact of an international education. Through academic excellence, entrepreneurship, professional development, and meaningful relationships, his time at the Faculty of Business and Economics became the foundation for a truly global future.