Pristine Akari Fujimaki

E-mail: pristinefuji@student.elte.hu

My name is Pristine Akari Fujimaki, and I’m from Japan. Interestingly, the only time I actually spent living in Japan was during high school, so meeting new people and talking about Japan is always fun, especially because they often know more about it than I do. I come from a family of four and have a brother who’s eight years younger than me. My hobbies include singing, dancing, eating, and binge-watching movies and series.

"Apart from the high-quality education ELTE offers, the diverse student body is what makes studying here truly special."

WHAT STOOD OUT TO YOU ABOUT ELTE?

I've always wanted to study outside of Japan because, living in Dubai from my formative years up until I was 14, my command of the English language is stronger than my Japanese language. I have travelled to Europe and appreciated the way of life and the cultural vibe, so the opportunity to study at ELTE, located in one of Europe’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities, was a big deal for me. With that in mind, ELTE first stood out to me because of the wide selection of courses offered in English. Its location in the heart of Budapest really appealed to me as well. I love the feeling of being connected to a city. Furthermore, ELTE’s reputation as an institution helps students gain access not only to academic-related facilities but also to broader professional, cultural, and social opportunities. Considering all of this, choosing ELTE felt like an easy and natural decision to make.

WHAT MAKES STUDYING AT ELTE SO GREAT?

Apart from the high-quality education ELTE offers, the diverse student body is what makes studying here truly special. Exchanging perspectives with people from different backgrounds and learning about their cultures has helped me grow so much as a person. ELTE is a hub for brilliant and intellectually curious students, and being surrounded by them makes the experience even more inspiring.

WHAT ARE / WERE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?

Unlike in high school, there’s no homework or teacher spoon-feeding you exactly what to study for the next test. Everything is up to you. Combined with the free time after classes, it's really up to the individual to decide when, how, and what to study. Time management was a real challenge for me, especially because being in a completely different country, let alone continent, is such an exciting experience. There’s always so much to do and so much fun to have.

HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES?

Reminding myself of my purpose for coming here and staying motivated by thinking of my family helped me a lot. I go back to visit them every summer, and honestly, it would be really embarrassing to tell them I had to delay my flight because I failed a test. That thought really helped me get my priorities straight.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ELTE IN THREE WORDS?

Diverse, Historic, Challenging

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

My degree has helped build the foundation I need to step into the world of business and economics. During my internship, the things I learned at ELTE came in handy, both in completing tasks and in conversations with peers.

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT ELTE?

I’d recommend that future students be more disciplined when it comes to balancing fun and studying. Also, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Greeting people and making friends will make university life much easier and more enjoyable. And don’t forget to explore the city! Budapest has so much to offer, so don’t stay cooped up in your room!