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 considering that I spoke no Hungarian. Surprisingly, with the pieces of advice I got from ‘senior’ interns at the CEA and some luck, I was able 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 will the CEA help you on the way?
I really see myself in academia, as a researcher and also as a lecturer, but now I cannot predict whether it will be in Poland or in other countries, only time will tell. I see CEA as an institution that will give me many opportunities to explore my research interests, to participate in the academic world and to expand my research network.
Was there anything you worried about before you came?
The language barrier in everyday and official situations was my biggest worry about moving abroad. Fortunately, in Budapest, a huge capital city in the middle of Europe, many people speak English at a communicative level, which makes my life here much easier. What's more, the CEA provides language training for its interns. I'm happy to take advantage of this and attend Hungarian and French classes.
What is everyday life like at the academy?
I spend most of my time at the Academy doing research for my doctoral thesis and the papers I am writing. It's also time to prepare presentations for many national and international conferences. From time to time there are conferences organised by the Central European Professor Network at the CEA, which I attend.
How supportive is CEA professionally?
The CEA as an organisation supports me in my daily work, not only in matters strictly related to my work at the Institute, but also in situations related to my job that arise from the need to comply with various types of official formalities.
How do you have time for research as well?
The daily schedule gives me the opportunity to organise my time at the CEA independently, which I can use to the full to gather and prepare the literature and information for my research, without having to worry about the passing of time.
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 Junior 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 the best experience for you at the CEA so far?
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)
