The event started off with a gala dinner on May 8, providing counselors with an opportunity to connect with staff from the Office for International Academic Programs in an informal setting.

On May 9, the Counselor Engagement Day was officially launched with an opening ceremony at the Rector’s Office, where Prof. Dr. Márta Széll, Vice-Rector for Strategic Planning, delivered the welcoming remarks. This was followed by a presentation from Rita Csúri-Magosi, Head of the Office for International Academic Programs, who provided valuable insights into the university’s academic programs and international outreach.

Designed to break the ice, the day began with interactive sessions that fostered networking among faculty representatives, guests, and university staff, while providing a platform to exchange perspectives on various national education systems.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Gizem Gültekin-Várkonyi, Professor at the Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, who reflected on her personal journey from arriving in Szeged as a Turkish student to becoming a member of the university community.

Highlights of the Counselor Engagement Day - Gallery by Ádám Kovács-Jerney

At the event, participants had the opportunity to engage directly with faculty representatives and gain useful first-hand information about the university’s academic programs. All University of Szeged faculties offering programs in English were represented, making this segment of the event particularly well-suited for both information-sharing and professional networking.

The event concluded with a visit to the Faculty of Medicine’s Skill Lab, where the high school counselors gained insight into the practical training offered at the University’s Medical School. They also had the opportunity to see and try the medical devices and equipment used in medical education.

The day ended with a guided tour of Szeged, during which the counselors visited the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Museum, the Votive Church, and Heroes’ Gate. They also explored many of the university’s most well-known buildings on its expansive urban campus.

The University has received enthusiastic feedback about the Counselor Engagement Day, with high school counselors noting that the day was “memorable” and “informative,” and that they would “definitely recommend SZTE” to their students. These remarks demonstrate that the Counselor Engagement Day was so impactful that it is poised to become a key highlight among the University’s numerous regular events.

Anna Hornyik

Photos: Ádám Kovács-Jerney