David Attila Kovacs, a Mechanical Engineering student at Neumann Janos University, spent the fall semester of 2025/2026 in Germany thanks to the Pannonia Scholarship Program.
David shared his experience:
One of my main “bucket list” goals during university was to spend a semester abroad. As a naturally curious and open-minded person, I knew it would be a life-changing experience—and it exceeded all my expectations during the four months in Stuttgart.
Despite arriving a few days late, I quickly adapted to the city, the emerging community, and the German higher education system. Cultural shock was minimal, and I experienced rapid personal growth, learning a lot about myself and pushing beyond my comfort zone.
Stuttgart, with a population roughly a third of Budapest’s, is vibrant and lively. Street performers, sports enthusiasts, clean and safe public spaces, and friendly locals made daily life enjoyable. I formed lasting friendships with fellow international students, many of whom I shared experiences with throughout the semester.
Academically, I attended DHBW, a dual-education university, taking courses in German, digital marketing, negotiation, driving techniques, and alternative investments. The shorter, flexible schedule allowed plenty of time for excursions and events such as Neuschwanstein Castle, Stuttgart Oktoberfest, and trips to France.
Highlights of the semester included cultural immersion, museum visits, historical sites, and outdoor adventures, including hiking in the Black Forest and snowy trails near Schwangau. These experiences complemented my studies and offered unforgettable personal growth.
David concluded: “If you are considering studying abroad, go for it. The experience is transformative and will leave you grateful for taking the leap into the unknown.”
A short montage of his semester abroad is available here: Watch Video
Source: Pannonia Scholarship Experience in Germany, 2026
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