We continue to introduce our international alumni volunteer team to you, which has 40 people from 28 countries speaking 20 different languages. In the next chapter of our volunteer series, you can read Hikmat Hasanov’s story from Azerbaijan! He studied in Hungary between 2019-2021 at Budapest Business School and now he’s working as a Senior Corporate Fundraiser in Baku.
Why did you choose Hungary and Budapest Business School?
Studying in Hungary was in my plans when I apply for my Bachelor’s degree. I chose Hungary because of the available scholarship opportunities. My major was Tourism Management and my university, Budapest Business School, was among the few universities offering the program that I was interested in. Also, the university was quite international which was appealing. Having an international class helped me to learn a lot of new things. I got to know different cultures, traditions, and even new foods that I hadn’t heard of before.
How did you like your studies? What was your favourite memory during your studies?
I really liked my studies because I could get new knowledge from experienced professors. Budapest Business School is a very good choice in terms of research. I was very keen on doing research and extensive classes taught me crucial details of the research. Having international groupmates and friends made my studies unforgettable. One of my favourite memories was participating in the Tourism Market Analysis Competition by STR. We had to elaborate the analysis from the data we received, and we presented them in the competition. We could represent our university very well.
How did you like the country?
Hungary is like my second home. Every day I spent in Hungary was amazing. Especially, I fell in love with the city of Budapest! Budapest is full of historical places and natural parks which made it very beautiful. The city is pedestrian-friendly and the transport system is excellent, therefore it was very easy to get around. I explored other cities in Hungary with my close Indian friend Amrendra. Another important reason why I liked Hungary was its cuisine. Food with paprikas such as töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage), and halászlé (fish soup) were my favourites.
Did you have any difficulties with the Hungarian culture? What was that and how did you handle it?
I did not have difficulties with the Hungarian culture. The language barrier was the main challenge for me. However, the locals were very friendly and helpful therefore, I could overcome this challenge by using an online translator.
How does the Hungarian culture differ from the Azeri culture?
Hungarian and Azerbaijanian cultures are not very different. Azerbaijanis are proud of their cultures and identity like Hungarians, and they can even talk about the beauties of the culture for hours. Azerbaijanis are trying to keep the culture and traditions alive and that’s what I noticed in Hungary as well. Respecting the elderly people and family gatherings during the holidays are the main similarities. Azerbaijanis are very outgoing and extroverted people, while Hungarians are cold and introverted. This is the main cultural difference that I noticed within 2 years.
You are among alumni volunteers. Why did you apply for that position? What's your task and how do you manage it? What do you think about the Alumni Network Hungary?
I will be always grateful to Hungary for the study opportunity. Therefore, I wanted to contribute to promoting Hungarian opportunities. Now, I’m building an alumni chapter in Azerbaijan and my main goal is to connect all Azerbaijani students who graduated from Hungarian universities. I always like to be engaged with the community, that’s why Alumni Network Hungary is a great initiative connecting thousands of graduates.
What's your plan for the future?
My primary plan is to excel professionally and contribute the society as much as I can. I am working as a Senior Corporate Fundraiser for SOS Children’s Village Azerbaijan now. This is a great chance for me to contribute to the education, and life of children and young people living in my country.