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 consisted of two stages: firstly, I applied to the CECL doctoral programme of the Deák Ferenc Doctoral School of Law of the University of Miskolc, and then to the CEA Junior Programme. The latter took place in the framework of an open day, during which I had the opportunity to experience that CEA is the most suitable place for my development.
How did the move go?
As I joined the CEA Junior Programme as a part-time student, I did not move to Hungary. Besides my classes at the University in Romania, I travel to Budapest every two weeks and stay in student hostels.
Where do you see yourself in a few years' time and how will CEA help you on your way?
Of course, my goals for the future still include teaching, I would like to expand my "portfolio" to other subjects besides constitutional law (comparative constitutional law, human rights). However, I would also like to work on the practical side of constitutional law. The CEA provides me with a training that will allow me to build up a substantial network of contacts and to get involved in a number of international projects, thus helping me to achieve my goals.
Was there anything you worried about before you came?
As I mentioned before, I only joined the CEA Junior Programme as a part-time student. For this reason I travel every two weeks between Cluj-Napoca and Budapest. At the beginning of the programme, my only concern was about organising the trips, but over time I got used to this 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 supportive is CEA 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 the CEA 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 Junior 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 the best experience at the CEA for you so far?
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 Junior Programme is an opportunity you won't regret!
Gellért (RO)
