The relationship between the rector and the Student Union is on a great track – Year-end interview with the president of the Stu

What were the biggest achievements of the Students’ Union this year? 

This summer, when the new leadership started its work, we decided to focus on two main directions: ensuring proper recognition for extracurricular activities and strong student advocacy. 

In terms of advocacy, our negotiations regarding study scholarships were a major success. We worked hard to restore the percentage of eligible students from 20% back to 25%. This was our biggest project, and it seems that we have succeeded. Another achievement is related to scholarships for first-semester master’s students. Previously, the regulations stated that first-semester master’s students were not eligible for study scholarships. We corrected this, and now the opportunity will be reopened. We will work together with the university to determine how this will be implemented. 

Among our social initiatives, the two most important were reintroducing the possibility of supplementing missing documents for social scholarships and lowering the minimum points required for social dormitory support to align with the social scholarship point system. This adjustment is already a significant result. 

On the community front, I think it was evident that we organized many more and higher-quality events. One of our biggest achievements was successfully integrating the large number of international students who have joined the university in recent years. We organized programs for both Hungarian and international students, and these events—especially the parties—were very successful, with exceptionally high attendance. I believe this is a great achievement of the semester, as we finally managed to involve international students in campus life. 

One of the major highlights of 2024 was the opening of the Gellért Campus in February, which added vibrancy to the university. It’s not just about the building itself but also the launch of the PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics) program here, which brings a fresh, dynamic perspective. 

I do have one request: make better use of these spaces! There’s plenty of room for community and professional programs—let’s bring more life here! We’re already trying, with events like the sports day, master’s orientation day, and the DSZ Expo. It’s worth organizing as many activities as possible here. We’re in a beautiful green area, on a sustainable campus with large spaces. Let’s take advantage of it! 

In August, a new rector took over the leadership of the university. How do you evaluate the new measures from the perspective of the students? 

Our relationship with the rector is very strong and dynamic. We meet frequently, consult regularly, and he involves us fully in the processes. Looking back over many years, the relationship between the Student Union and the rector has never been this strong, and we’re delighted about this. The rector brings a professional approach and has introduced a Western mindset and practices that have greatly benefited this community. He is also very fair, and I believe that when we agree on something, he keeps his word and pays attention to us, which is fantastic. One of the best developments of the year is the rector’s arrival, as he has brought consolidation and stability, qualities that were less characteristic of 2023. 

There will be a vice-rector responsible for student affairs. What is your take on this? 

This was one of the rector’s primary goals, and it now seems to be materializing. We’ve worked closely with Judit Nagy in the rector’s working group for student life, and her approach has been excellent. 
This position is beneficial because it can be challenging to coordinate with many different people on various student issues, each with a slightly different perspective. Now, Judit will oversee many matters that are important to us. I’d highlight academic administration, which, in our experience, has faced delays. It could be faster, more efficient, and more student-friendly. Other matters, such as the resources of student organizations, will also fall under her purview. These are areas where collaboration is essential, and we’ve already established contact to ensure that our cooperation in the spring will be as intensive as possible. 

How do you see the cooperation between the Student Union and the university leadership? Are you adequately involved in the processes? 

I believe openness has improved, and we are highly involved in committees. Whether it’s the Senate, where we bring proposals and continuously provide feedback, or the five working groups focusing on fine-tuning the university’s strategy, our presence is significant. It also seems that our representation in the Senate will increase. Over the past year, the Student Union’s position within the university has strengthened considerably. 

Why do you think it’s beneficial for the university that you participate in decision-making? 

I believe having a strong student voice in decision-making is valuable, as these decisions often directly impact us—financially, academically, or in terms of well-being. I feel we are having an increasing influence on university decisions, from the highest governing board to committee levels. This helps ensure that students feel more comfortable and connected to the university. 

How has the direction represented by the Student Union changed with the leadership transition? 

In the summer, we underwent a significant leadership change, which marked a generational shift. Many new leaders are now in charge of various areas, and while some are a year or two younger than their predecessors, we prepared for this by launching an internal leadership training program last spring. Despite the generational shift, I believe we have become even stronger, establishing a robust advocacy and internal system. At the same time, we’ve managed to organize events and build the community more professionally, overcoming the challenges posed by the leadership transition. 

What are your expectations for the coming year? What will be the most important issues you aim to represent? 

The fall semester focused on correcting and adjusting various scholarships. In the spring, the emphasis will be on the Corvinus Scholarship, which has the most significant financial impact on students’ lives and needs improvement, in our view. On another front, we want to organize even more community events and, through these, continue to strongly support student colleges and organizations. Our strategic goal remains to highlight the value of extracurricular activities within the university and ensure recognition for them. It’s not just GPA that defines how accomplished a student is but also what they contribute to the university during their time here. This recognition will help students feel a stronger sense of belonging atCorvinus.