09/02/2024
Hungary
participants
The goal of Orientation Week by ESN ELTE was to welcome new Erasmus students, help them build connections, and introduce them to the culture and landmarks of Budapest, ensuring a smooth and engaging start to their semester.
ESN ELTE's Orientation Week, held from 5th to 9th February, was an action-packed introduction to Budapest and the vibrant ESN community. Over the course of five days, we organised a series of engaging events designed to welcome new Erasmus students, foster connections, and introduce them to the local culture and attractions.
Day 1: Meet ESN + Speed Friending We kicked off Orientation Week with a "Meet ESN" event where new students had the chance to meet the board and team of ESN ELTE. This was followed by a Speed Friending session, a fun and fast-paced activity that allowed participants to meet many new friends in a short time. The event was also an opportunity for students to purchase their ESNcards, offering them amazing discounts with Ryanair, Flixbus, Spotahome, and many local businesses.
Day 2: City Tour Day two featured a City Tour through the heart of Budapest. Participants explored iconic landmarks such as the Parliament, Opera House, Liberty Square, the Buda panorama, and St. Stephen's Basilica. This tour provided a perfect blend of history and culture, helping students get acquainted with their new city.
Day 3: Pub Quiz On the third day, students gathered at A Grund for a lively Pub Quiz. Teams competed in a friendly environment, answering questions that ranged from general knowledge to local trivia, enhancing their understanding of Hungarian culture while enjoying a social night out.
Day 4: Scavenger Hunt + Ice Skating The fourth day was all about adventure and fun. We started with a Scavenger Hunt, where participants teamed up to explore Budapest, solve clues, and complete challenges. This activity encouraged teamwork and navigation skills. In the evening, we hit the ice for a delightful Ice Skating session, offering a classic winter experience in a picturesque setting.
Day 5: Karaoke Night Orientation Week concluded with a high-energy Karaoke Night. Students took to the stage to showcase their singing talents and enjoy a memorable evening of music and camaraderie. This final event was a perfect way to wrap up the week, leaving everyone with fond memories and new friendships.
Overall, ESN ELTE's Orientation Week was a fantastic start to the semester, helping new Erasmus students feel welcomed, engaged, and excited about their time in Budapest. Each event was thoughtfully designed to mix cultural exploration with social interaction, ensuring a balanced and enriching experience for all participants.
