The future begins here

Siyabonga Ramakhutla shares his university experience at the University of Debrecen in Hungary.
JUSTISIA SHIPENA
Siyabonga Ramakhutla





I am a first-year medical student at the University of Debrecen in Hungary. My experience at this university has been a rollercoaster; there have been a lot of highs and lows. However, that is the beauty about it; it makes you a better and stronger person. It actually taught me to bring the best out of myself and not let anything get in my way.

Growing up on the African continent, in the heart of Namibia, and moving to a continent in a country that is way different from mine, has come with its challenges as well. Adapting to living in the capital city of Hungary’s Northern Great Plain region has been the trickiest, because the culture and lifestyle in Debrecen is completely different to what I am used to back home.

Nevertheless, it is nice to get to know other cultures and what makes it more interesting is that there are plenty of different nationalities here. So one does not feel like an outsider.

The education system here is really difficult; they only want the best of the best, and for you to have a spot you should really put in the effort. It teaches us to grow up faster and to start thinking smarter and wiser. They don't allow any shortcuts, which is pretty good, because at the end of the day the amount of work you put in determines the outcome.

The diversity at this university is crazy. You can expect to meet anyone from any part of the world. They also take a lot of pride in their sport. This university also specialises mainly in its medical school. What I like most about my university is the friendly atmosphere that surrounds you in each and every corner. I like most of the subjects they offer to students and my university is super-multinational. We have students from all over the world.

I would advise young people that they should not let one setback determine what's still ahead. You should learn to get back up as fast as you fall.

Did you know?

The University of Debrecen is the oldest continuously operating institution of higher education in Hungary since 1538.

Facts about Ramakhutla

· He is driven.

· He is a sporty person.

· His has a dream of becoming an orthopaedic surgeon.

He likes to challenge himself to know