The Career Day event launched in 2018 was also held this year, at which our alumni who graduated from foreign language training program come back for an evening to tell current students about their career in veterinary field and professional development. The idea of the Career Day popped out of my head when I was approached several times by our graduates who spoke nostalgically of the years they spent here, while I remembered how much they had suffered, complained, or just wanted to graduate as soon as possible and leave, away from here, far from Budapest and Hungary. As the years go by, the anxiety caused by difficult exams vanishes, bad memories also fade away, and the wonderful experiences of Budapest, the friendships and loves forged here come to the fore in conversations.
For the fifth time this year, the staff of the Foreign Language Student Secretariat, led by Péter Lessi, organized the Career Day. Those who do the counting, at first it seems that the math does not work out. However, after 2018 and 2019, Covid made it impossible to hold the event for two years (2020, 2021). So finally, the Career Day started again in 2022. Prof. Tibor Bartha, Vice Rector responsible for foreign language study affairs, opened the evening in the Student Center, which was filled to its capacity.
This year we had three speakers, all veterinarians: Tania Germann (American), Philipp Scholz (German) and Theodora Bernitsa (Greek), who accepted the invitation with great pleasure. Tania has been working in the United States of America since her graduation in 2006. Although she started as an assistant despite her degree, she is currently building her small animal clinic, which will open in the near future. The graduate of 2013, Philipp has built his own osteopathic practice in Portugal and Germany, where he treats horses’ locomotor diseases (Cheiron.vet). In addition, he even speaks a little bit of Hungarian. Theodora, who got her diploma in 2014 works in France in a mixed practice. She is called to different parts of the country, where all kinds of livestock, from pets to farm animals, come under her care.
As usual, the evening was followed by wine tasting organized by Bortodoor City staff led by Smike.
Since I’ve covered the event every year so far, I thought it was time to ask some of the attendees to share their experiences. There you are!
Navigating Post-Graduation Uncertainty:
Insights from Alumni and Wine Tasting Experience
Herman Smith
(5th year English program)
As final year students, the looming question of what lies beyond graduation can often feel like an intimidating cloud on the horizon. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an event where three esteemed alumni shared their post-graduation journeys, offering invaluable insights into the unpredictable yet rewarding path ahead.
The presentations delivered by the alumni were candid reflections on their professional trajectories, encompassing both the triumphs and tribulations they encountered along the way. From the tough times to the good times, the funny anecdotes to the somber moments, each narrative resonated deeply with the audience, including myself, as we grapple with the uncertainty of our own futures.
What struck me most was the realization that none of the alumni had a predetermined roadmap to success. Instead, they embraced the opportunities that presented themselves, navigating their careers with resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to seize the moment. Despite the uncertainties they faced, all three are now thriving veterinarians, a testament to the power of perseverance and seizing opportunities.
Following the enlightening presentations, the evening took a delightful turn with a wine tasting session. As we savored the various wines, engaging in games to identify the subtleties of each blend, the experience became not only educational but also incredibly enjoyable. Surrounded by friends and former lecturers, the atmosphere was festive, fostering both camaraderie and learning.
Despite my lack of proficiency in wine tasting – earning a mere 1 out of 16 which surprised the instructor – the encouragement to delve deeper into the world of wine was evident. Generously, I was offered a free tasting to fuel my curiosity and refine my palate, a gesture reflective of the supportive community that characterizes our university.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers and personnel who organised such a memorable evening. Their efforts in creating opportunities for personal and professional growth are truly commendable. As I reflect on the event, I am filled with optimism for the future and a newfound appreciation for the journey that lies ahead.
In closing, I express my hope for the continuation of such events, fostering connections between students, alumni, and faculty. May this be the one of many gatherings, where knowledge is shared, friendships are forged, and aspirations are nurtured.
Careers Eve
Ciara Osullivan
(4th year English program)
Wednesday evening saw the return of our annual Careers Eve event organised by Dr. Mándoki Míra, Dr. Tibor Bartha and Mr. Lessi Péter. Students heard from three speakers all of whom are past students of the university. Each speaker told of their own individual stories and experiences, from urgent care clinics in Maryland to equine osteopathy and traditional Chinese veterinary medicine in Berlin. It was refreshing to learn there is not one but many different avenues of employment available to us after graduation. Dr Germann spoke of her first job after graduation as a vet tech in Hawaii and concluded her speech with the news of her recruitment to open a new veterinary practice in Washington DC. Dr Scholz referred to his time as a research assistant in an EU research project following graduation. Both stories reminded us that we do not have to proceed directly into veterinary practice post-graduation, there are many other paths available to us.
The culmination of speeches was eagerly followed by the second part of our highly educational Careers Eve; a mouth-watering wine tasting hosted by Bortodoor Wine Bar. From oaky white wines to full-bodied reds, we were introduced to a number of the best wines Hungary has to offer. My personal favourite being Furmint. Many prizes were won throughout the evening, including bottles of aromatic Primitivo and complimentary wine tasting events in the fashionable Bortodoor Wine Bar on Zichy Jeno utca.
As students we are lucky to have occasions such as the Careers Eve, to further our knowledge and guide our expectations for life after graduation. I will undoubtedly be signing up for next years Careers Eve!
Words of Leonardo Lehr (2nd year German program):
With International day and Ox roast the Careers eve counts as one of the best events our university can offer!
First of all, it is really inspiring to meet people, who graduated from this university and see where they end up. What I learned by now: Everything is possible afterwards. Each time totally different people or student types (back in the days) reveal their way into Vet-life. However, the best part seems to be their openness to help you with your motivation or maybe even with internships. It takes some courage to start the conversation but for me, I got never disappointed and secured several amazing internships all around the world.
Therefore, go join Careers eve to brighten your future. Networking was never that easy. 🙂
Of course a lot of people join just for the wine tasting. Honestly, who can blame them, for enjoying a really good sommelier, that brings amazing wines. With everything said, I don’t believe, any doubts are left. 😉
After the lectures, the students asked the alumni a number of questions, and the conversation – now in a more informal form – continued during the wine tasting.
I hope that we will be able to organize this meeting next year as well, which always gives inspiration to the students and earns nostalgic moments for our guests. It would be a pleasure if Hungarian students would also come, as many of them plan to improve their skills abroad and the contacts that can be made on the Career Day are worth their weight in gold.
Dr. Míra Mándoki