Aidana Erkinbekova

E-mail: moonerkinbek@gmail.com

Hello everyone! I’m Aidana - my name means “lunar wisdom” in Kyrgyz. I come from the heart of Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan, and currently study International Relations at ELTE as a Stipendium Hungaricum scholar.

I’ve always felt like a citizen of the world. I’m passionate about storytelling in all its forms - whether through art, volunteering, or meaningful conversations with strangers. My interests range from global affairs and cultural diplomacy to spontaneous travel, deep films, and quiet moments behind a camera.

If you're curious about life at ELTE, moving abroad, or just want to exchange film recommendations - don’t hesitate to reach out!

"Personally for me ELTE wasn’t only its strong academic reputation - though that certainly mattered. It was the feeling of belonging I experienced early on, even as an international student far from home."

WHAT STOOD OUT TO YOU ABOUT ELTE?

Personally for me ELTE wasn’t only its strong academic reputation - though that certainly mattered. It was the feeling of belonging I experienced early on, even as an international student far from home. ELTE brings together people and ideas from all over the world, creating a space where diverse stories, perspectives, and cultures meet. For me, it became more than a university - it became a place to grow, be challenged, and feel understood.

WHAT MAKES STUDYING AT ELTE SO GREAT?

What makes studying at ELTE so great is the blend of academic depth and real-life diversity. You’re learning from professors who truly care about their field - and you’re surrounded by students from all over the world, each bringing their own story, perspective, and curiosity.

It’s a place where your mind is constantly challenged, but also where you find friendships, inspiration, and moments that stay with you long after the lectures end. Whether you're discussing international relations over coffee or discovering hidden corners of Budapest between classes - it all becomes part of your learning journey here.

WHAT WERE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?

When I first began studying International Relations at ELTE, everything felt unfamiliar - not just the city, language, and classroom dynamics, but even the way knowledge was approached. Back home, we were more focused on memorization, while here, critical thinking and academic independence were key. Participating in discussions or writing academic papers in English felt overwhelming. I kept questioning if I was where I was supposed to be.

HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES?

Slowly but surely, I found my rhythm. I started asking more questions - from professors, peers, even strangers who became friends. I learned to not fear mistakes, but to embrace them as part of the process. Watching myself grow through each semester, one essay and group project at a time, reminded me why I chose this path. I also found comfort in the international community around me - we were all navigating similar challenges, just in different languages and shoes. What helped the most? Reminding myself that learning isn’t supposed to feel easy - it’s supposed to feel alive.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ELTE IN THREE WORDS?

Inclusive. Inspiring. International.

HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR DEGREE WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR LIFE AND CAREER?

My degree in International Relations is more than academics - it’s a lens through which I see the world.

In my future career, I hope to build bridges - between cultures, between generations, between ideas. Whether it’s through cultural diplomacy, advocacy, or international cooperation, this degree is my compass.

And in life? It’s helped me become more empathetic, more aware, and more ready to ask difficult questions - not just to the world, but to myself.

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT ELTE?

Yes - be brave. Say yes to things before you feel ready: join that student group, speak up in class, start conversations in the hallway. ELTE is more than a university; it’s a space where you can reinvent yourself, if you let it. And don’t be afraid to get lost - in Budapest, in ideas, in friendships. That’s where the real growth happens.