Dana Nabulsi
International Student Ambassador
Study Program
Degree Program
Degree program
Community and Civil Development Studies MA
Country
Palestinian Territories
Scholarship
Stipendium Hungaricum
Period of studies at ELTE
-
Period of studies at ELTE - comment
(expected)
Area of interest
Social Sciences, Journalism and Information

E-mail: dananabulsi3@student.elte.hu 

Hi, I'm Dana! I’m someone who really appreciates the small, meaningful moments—like sharing good food, going on spontaneous walks, or getting lost in long, heartfelt conversations. I love exploring new places, even the simplest ones like a cozy café or a peaceful corner of the city. In my free time, I enjoy music, watching things that inspire me, and spending quality time with the people I care about. Meeting new people and hearing their stories is something I truly value—it makes life feel richer, more connected, and a lot more special.

"I see myself as someone with a dream—I want to use what I’m learning here to give back to my country and make a positive impact after graduation. That’s something that really motivates me every day."

WHAT STOOD OUT TO YOU ABOUT ELTE?

What really stood out to me about ELTE was how welcoming and international it feels. I liked that students from so many different backgrounds come together here, which makes it easy to connect and learn from each other. At the same time, the university has a strong reputation and a long history, which gave me confidence in my choice. I also loved the atmosphere of Budapest—it just felt like a place where I could grow, both academically and personally

WHAT MAKES STUDYING AT ELTE SO GREAT?

What I really enjoy about studying at ELTE is not just the academics, but the whole experience around it. The flexibility of the professors makes a big difference and creates a more comfortable learning environment. I feel supported, not just as a student, but as a person. Being part of such a diverse and international community also helps me grow and see the world from different perspectives. At the same time, I see myself as someone with a dream—I want to use what I’m learning here to give back to my country and make a positive impact after graduation. That’s something that really motivates me every day.

WHAT WERE YOUR CHALLENGES IN YOUR STUDY PROGRAM?

At the beginning, everything felt a bit new and different—from the academic system to the way classes were structured. It wasn’t exactly a ‘challenge’ in a negative way, but more of an adjustment to a different style of studying and living.

HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES?

I just gave myself time to get used to everything naturally. I learned by doing, observing, and slowly finding my own rhythm. Over time, things started to feel more familiar and comfortable.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE ELTE IN THREE WORDS?

Welcoming, Global, Empowering

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

My degree in Community and Civil Development Studies is helping me build a strong understanding of how communities work and how positive change can be created in a sustainable way. As a former project coordinator in community development, I already had the chance to be involved in real projects, which made my studies feel even more meaningful and practical.  In the future, I see this degree helping me grow both professionally and personally, especially in working on community-focused initiatives. My goal is to apply what I learn to real-life situations and contribute to improving communities in a way that has a lasting impact, especially in my own country.

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE STUDENTS AT ELTE?

My advice to future ELTE students is to be brave and take the first step without hesitation. Don’t be afraid of new experiences or challenges, because that’s where real growth happens. Put yourself out there, try new things, and trust that you will find your way over time. ELTE is a place where you learn a lot—not only academically, but also about yourself—so just start with courage and hope.