Introduction
I graduated at Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania with a law degree, and received my Master's degree from Babeș-Bolyai University, in addition to Sapientia. Constitutional law formed an important part of my university studies, so I was pleased to have the opportunity to get involved in teaching as a junior lecturer. I am currently teaching at Sapientia University.
How was the application process?
The application process took place in two stages: first, I applied to the CECL doctoral programme of the Deák Ferenc Doctoral School of Law at the University of Miskolc, and then to the CEA UM Junior Programme. The latter took place במסגרת an open day, during which I had the opportunity to experience that CEA UM is the most suitable environment for my development.
How did the move go?
Since I joined the CEA UM Junior Programme as a part-time student, I did not move to Hungary. Alongside teaching at a university in Romania, I travel to Budapest every two weeks, and during these visits I usually stay in student accommodation or hostels.
Where do you see yourself in a few years, and how does the CEA UM help you on that path?
Among my long-term goals, teaching naturally continues to play an important role. In addition to constitutional law, I would like to expand my portfolio to include other subjects (comparative constitutional law, human rights). At the same time, I would also like to engage in the practical aspects of constitutional law. CEA UM provides me with a programme through which I can build a significant professional network and become involved in numerous international projects, thereby facilitating the achievement of my goals.
Was there anything you worried about before you came?
As I mentioned earlier, I joined the CEA UM Junior Programme as a part-time student. For this reason, I travel between Cluj-Napoca and Budapest every two weeks. At the beginning of the programme, my only concern was organising the travel, but over time I have gained experience in this as well, and it is no longer a problem.
What is everyday life like at the academy?
If I had to describe it in one word, I would say it is diverse. There are the days when we attend conferences, there are days when some of the supervisors give a lecture, and of course there are the busy weekdays when we do research, write articles or prepare a presentation.
How much does the CEA UM support you professionally?
We get all the support we need from the academy, whether it's access to databases, purchasing textbooks or presenting at conferences. In addition, as I mentioned before, the Academy has given me the opportunity to be part of an international research network, which is also a great help.
How can you also do research?
It is true that it can be difficult to find time for research in addition to all these activities, but if you are really dedicated, this should not be an obstacle.
What other opportunities does CEA UM offer?
Participation in international conferences, research trips and international networking are all of great importance. Unfortunately, I have so far been afraid to undertake a longer research trip abroad as I was worried that it would be at the expense of my lectures at my home Universuty, but I plan to take this opportunity in the near future.
What is it like to live in Budapest?
As I'm only here every second week, the city always has something to surprise me. I would say that you can't get bored of Budapest.
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
My long-term goal is to work as a lecturer and also to gain practical experience, especially in the field of constitutional law.
Who would you recommend the CEA UM programme to?
Any young person who wants to achieve more and is not afraid to work. The international community makes a certain degree of openness essential, so I would recommend the programme to anyone who is open to learning about new cultures.
Isn’t it a disadvantage that the Academy is so young?
I don't feel disadvantaged by the fact that the institution is so young. I rather feel the positive benefits of its novelty.
What has been your best experience so far at the CEA UM?
To get to know each other's culture. I feel that the cultural evenings have contributed greatly to my personal development, and I am very grateful to the academy.
What message do you have for future juniors?
The CEA UM Junior Programme is an opportunity you simply cannot regret!
Gellért (RO)
