Student Spotlight: Csenge Nagy – Sewanee: The University Of The South
Csenge Nagy, a former student of ELTE Apáczai Csere János Gyakorló Gimnázium és Kollégium in Budapest, entered her second year at Sewanee University last August. She is pursuing a double major in Politics and Russian with a possible minor in Film Studies or Philosophy. Though only halfway into her program, Csenge plays an active role on campus by participating in many clubs and activities, all while balancing a heavy courseload. She is also the recipient of the prestigious Klein Family Scholarship–offered by the university to promising Hungarian students.
Interviewer: Olivia Murr
Q: What about Sewanee convinced you it was the right choice?
A: While I grew up in a small country in Eastern Europe, I was brought up in a way that encouraged me to think big, and always think outside the box. I became a very adventurous adult, and during my high school years I realized I want to experience more of the world, and studying abroad was a great way to do so. During the college research process I stumbled upon Sewanee, this small liberal arts college in Tennessee, and its uniqueness instantly caught my attention. It was obvious from student panels, information sessions and conversations that my college places a lot of emphasis on diverse education and most importantly provides space for any and all interests – I get a chance to fully enjoy my academic growth, and my ideas are supported.
Q: What would you like to do with your degree? How do you think this experience will positively impact your future goals?
A: I’ve always been passionate about international relations, politics and human rights. I wouldn’t be here right now if it wasn’t for where I came from – my home community and cultural background. I’m interested in the economic and social development of post-communist countries and their new relations with the parts of the Eastern and Western blocs, therefore I’d love to conduct research on that in the near future. I aim to be a strong advocate of human rights; I hope to work with prestigious international organizations in future years to promote democratic values and bridge political gaps between nations. There are many research groups and institutions that address these problems; I would like to work with ones that engage in active, impactful action on global issues.
Q: What steps did you take to make your application the best it could be?
A: One of the most important things for me was starting the process ahead of time. The US college application process is very different from the Hungarian one, both required material and time-wise, therefore I made sure to keep up with deadlines, chat with counselors and ask peers for tips and advice so I could have a full understanding of the process. I believe reaching out, showing interest and maintaining relationships are super important. Another thing is diversity in interests. Many American colleges strive to have a diverse student body – it’s always fun to show something special you’re passionate about, as it makes you a unique applicant.
Q: What was it like applying for (and receiving) the Klein Scholarship?
A: The Klein Scholarship is an extremely honorable opportunity offered exclusively by Sewanee – after submitting the Common Application, there is one additional essay that needs to be completed in order for a Hungarian student to become a Klein applicant. Then, Sewanee’s counselors offer a chance for a friendly, live conversation via Zoom to learn more about applicants, which also provides students with the ability to learn more about Sewanee first-hand, and get to know the experiences of people who are a part of the college. Receiving the Scholarship was such an honorable opportunity, I’m extremely thankful and proud to be a Klein Scholar!
Q: Do you have any advice for current advisees who are concerned about funding their education abroad?
A: American colleges and universities place emphasis on their international student body. They want you there! There are many financial aid programs and scholarships available with the aim to meet your needs. The Klein Scholarship is really special for me and my peers, as it uniquely seeks Hungarian students. Look out for opportunities, reach out to your desired institutions to see what they have to offer.
Q: What is your favorite thing about studying at Sewanee?
A: I love how busy I am here without feeling exhausted or overwhelmed. There is always something to do: a fun field trip with my class, an event at my sorority, dinner at a professor’s house, a hike with friends, going to a basketball game, seeing the newborn baby goats at the university farm, creating my own club or joining other student organizations. I make new, unique memories with my Sewanee experiences every week.
Q: How did the FLEX program prepare you to attend university in the U.S.?
A: The idea of going to college in the United States formed during my high school exchange year as a Future Leaders Exchange Program finalist. I lived in Maine with an amazing family who I’m still close with, and immersing myself in American cultural communities made me realize that this open, diverse environment is where I thrive the most, both in my academic and personal life. My U.S. high school teachers, family and friends have also encouraged me to try to apply to colleges here, they even accompanied me to campus tours and informational sessions. When going through the college application process, I was more secure and intentional in my decisions as thanks to the FLEX program, I knew what to expect.
Q: Are there any special programs, clubs, or internships available that you have taken part in?
A: Yes. Many. As I mentioned, us Sewanee students like to keep ourselves busy.
I am part of many organizations – I am in a sorority, which is a ton of fun. I also hold the title of Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within Sewanee’s Greek Council which oversees all sororities and fraternities on campus. I often volunteer – I’m part of the Outreach program that connects with communities in need nationwide. I have two jobs – I work at our local cafe, Cup﹠Gown, and as a research assistant on campus for the Roberson Project on Slavery, Race, and Reconciliation, with the initiative to learn, educate and engage the campus community with its own history. I am also part of the student-led social justice committee ‘213-A’, the Student Inclusive Excellence Committee and I’m an orientation leader for incoming freshmen.
During the summer of 2024 I got to intern for the Russian Department as a translator – I translated contemporary articles about socio-political issues and its expression in theater and art – my work got published recently, which is exciting. This year I live in one of Sewanee’s theme houses, the Eastern European Culture House. Me and my housemates organize movie nights, house dinners and other fun events to promote the cultures of the area.
I love to get to know prospective students – I am a Global Arcadian; we are a group of international students who organize online tours, panels and Q﹠As for international students seeking higher education in the US and are interested in Sewanee – I hope to connect with some of you at our next session.
Q: What is one thing you miss about Hungary and one thing you’ve learned while living in the U.S.?
A: I’m lucky to say that I feel loved and appreciated by my friends and family even 8000 kms away. I do miss my loved ones and some places, such as the riverbank of the Danube, my favorite bakery, metro line M3 and the forest near my house, but I make sure to visit all the fun places when I fly back during breaks. When I get really homesick, I miss Hungarian food, such as stuffed cabbage rolls a lot!
However, having people all around the world close to my heart I did learn that the distance – while scary – is not that bad. I found a way to connect my two homes – Sewanee and Hungary – I introduced my American friends to my Hungarian ones, and even my parents got to know my college friends through various stories, texts and FaceTime calls. I’m super excited for this summer as some Sewanee friends are coming to visit me in Hungary.
Q: Any final advice for students interested in studying in the U.S.?
A: Take the chance, be brave, you have nothing to lose. Unknown things are scary, but you won’t know what different places, people and experiences have for you if you don’t try.
If you have any questions, concerns or fears, please reach out. I’d love to hear from any current advisees. We can text, call or meet up in person next time I’m in Budapest.