Bachelors and Masters Students of HSE University Took Part in a Winter School at Corvinus University of Budapest
Corvinus University is located in the center of Budapest and is famous for its programs in business, economics, and social sciences, as well as for its international cooperation with companies and experts from different countries.
For ten days students immersed in a rich academic and cultural environment that combined classes along with practical insights from experts and learning about Hungarian history and culture.
The program included an International Relations course taught by Dr. Tamás Matura, Senior Fellow of CEPA Washington, President of the Central and Eastern European Research Center for Asian Studies. Students learned how Hungary, as a small state, builds its foreign policy in a changing world, balancing between the West and the East. Students also took part in a master class on intercultural communication in business led by Dr. Zita Kelemen, a licensed trainer of Lewis Communications and GLOBALDISC. The class focused on how to manage cultural diversity in international teams, work with partners from different countries, and improve business performance through better cross-cultural understanding.
As part of the expert meetings, students visited the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation in Hungary. During the meeting, Sergei Bezrukov, Trade Representative of Russia in Hyngary, spoke about current trends in Russian–Hungarian economic relations, future areas for cooperation and investment and practical steps to strengthen trade ties between the two countries.
In addition to classes, students enjoyed a rich cultural program. It included a guided tour of Buda Castle with visits to the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, a tour of the Hungarian Parliament building and the historic city center, including St. Stephen’s Basilica, as well as other famous landmarks of Budapest.с
Associate Professor, Department of Strategic and International Management, Academic Director of the Bachelor’s programme International Business, Director of the Center for Corporate Sustainability Management
International winter and summer schools play a key role in shaping global thinking among our students. Understanding political and cultural contexts, working in an international environment and building professional networks are essential parts of their professional development. Hungary, with its unique position between different cultures and political systems, offers an ideal setting for this type of learning.
Alina Dosanova
Master in International Management programme, 1st year
The trip to Budapest and studying at Corvinus University left very positive impressions. I really liked the atmosphere of the university: a modern campus, friendly teachers and interesting lectures. It was great to see how the learning process is organized in another country.
Beyond the academic part, the program allowed us to feel the spirit of the city. Beautiful streets, historic buildings, and views of the Danube made the experience even more memorable.
Overall, it was a very useful and inspiring trip. It gave me a new perspective on international cooperation and motivation for future projects. Thank you to the organizers for such an opportunity.
Ekaterina Biriukova
Bachelor’s programme International Business, 2nd year
The winter school in Hungary became a vivid and valuable experience that combined learning, travel, and full immersion in the European context. In just 10 days, the program helped me better understand Hungary’s history and modern geopolitics, as well as how the EU, NATO, and the Schengen Area work in real examples you can actually see.
Classes were based on discussions and debates, where it was important not just to listen, but also to think, argue, and defend your point of view. We also visited the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation in Hungary and learned more about economic relations between our countries. The excursions, the open and supportive attitude of the lecturers as well as the comfortable pace of the program were especially memorable.
We explored Budapest, and tried Hungarian food like goulash, lángos, and strudel. The intercultural communication course was a special highlight. It helped me better understand people from other cultures and showed that Russians and Hungarians have a lot in common.
This program gave me not only knowledge, but also valuable international experience, new friends and inspiration. I warmly recommend it to everyone who wants to study, travel, and broaden their worldview.
Shahzod Latipov
Master in International Management Programme, 1st year
Taking part in the Corvinus University winter school is a great opportunity for students of the HSE Graduate School of Business to quickly immerse themselves in business environment, the history, culture, of Hungary. During the school program, we gained knowledge of the intersection of intercultural communication and international relations from leading Corvinus professors.
The experience included not only theory, but also practical work in the format of Oxford-style debates, which required strong focus, active participation and public speaking skills.
It is worth noting that the organizers also made sure that students explored Hungarian history and culture. Over two days, together with a professional guide, Ms. Gabriella, we visited all major sights of Budapest and learned many interesting facts about Hungary’s rich history and culture. At the end of the program, we visited a company founded in Hungary by an American entrepreneur. As a future entrepreneur, I found it very valuable to learn firsthand about the advantages and specifics of doing business in Hungary. I am very satisfied with this winter school and strongly recommend HSE GSB students to join the program next year.
