Introduction
My name is Norbert S., I’m first year PhD student at the University of Miskolc and intern in at the Central European Academy in Budapest. My PhD thesis is connected to labour law, especially to the personal scope of individual labour law in the Visegrad group countries.
How was the application process?
It was quite a good experience. I was a bit stressed before the presentation, but I was well prepared with my dissertation topic and all the people involved in the application were supportive and gave me a good expression of what the CECL programme can look like.
How did the move go?
As a foreigner, I thought it would be an impossible task, especially since I didn’t speak Hungarian. Surprisingly, with the help of advice from the more experienced interns at the CEA UM and a bit of luck, I managed to find a decent apartment within walking distance of the office and all the other venues and places.
Where do you see yourself in a few years, and how does the CEA UM help you on that path?
I truly see myself in academic life, both as a researcher and a lecturer, although at this stage I cannot yet predict whether this will be in Poland or in another country—only time will tell. I see the CEA UM as an institution that provides numerous opportunities for me to explore my research interests, engage in academic life, and expand my research network.
Was there anything you worried about before you came?
Language barriers in everyday and official situations were my biggest concern about moving abroad. Fortunately, in Budapest—a large capital in the heart of Europe—many people speak English at a communicative level, which makes my life here much easier. In addition, the CEA UM provides language training for its interns, which I gladly take advantage of by attending Hungarian and French classes.
What is everyday life like at the academy?
I spend most of my time at the Academy conducting research for my doctoral dissertation and the papers I am writing. I also dedicate time to preparing presentations for various national and international conferences. From time to time, there are conferences organised by the Central European Professors’ Network at the CEA UM, in which I participate.
How supportive is CEA professionally?
The CEA UM as an organisation supports me in my daily work, not only in matters directly related to my work at the Institute, but also in work-related situations arising from the need to comply with various official formalities.
How do you have time for research as well?
The daily schedule allows me to organise my time at the CEA UM independently, which I can fully utilise to collect and prepare the literature and information necessary for my research without having to worry about time constraints.
What is it like to live in Budapest?
I always find living in the capital to be an overwhelming experience, because of the crowds, the tourists, the nightlife, the traffic jams. But there is another side to Budapest, too - cosy cafés, cosy bars, lots of parks and green spaces like Margit Sziget, mountains in the distance. Budapest gives you the choice, and all you have to do is decide what you want to see this week
How do you see the grant financially?
The amount of PhD scholarship gives me a stability and financial independence. That gives me a peace of mind and motivation to work and research without worries about my financial situation and living in Budapest.
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
I see my future primarily in science rather than the practice of law. I would like to develop my research interests, conduct scientific studies and teach labour and social law at universities. I would also like to get involved in public activities by acting in NGOs providing legal advice or by working in think-tanks and preparing policies and opinions as an expert.
Who would you recommend the CEA UM programme to?
I would recommend the CEA Junior Programme to all young researchers who wish to expand their knowledge during their doctoral studies in a field to which they are genuinely devoted, and who wish to boost their international research career in a friendly environment.
Isn’t it a disadvantage that the Academy is so young?
In my view, this is a case of turning a vice into a virtue, because young organisations have great potential for growth and innovation. They are not tied to rigid structures, which allows them to adapt quickly and innovate effectively. This flexibility allows them to refine their offerings and turn initial challenges into opportunities.
What has been your best experience so far at the CEA UM?
I am thinking of the Junior Camp - an event organised for new trainees that brings together all the young researchers, which was very helpful in entering the new working environment and getting to know each other better.
What message do you have for future juniors?
Sapere Aude - Have courage to use your own reason.
Norbert (PL)
