Between September 4-7, the largest community event of Semmelweis University, the Freshman Camp, took place – with a larger headcount than ever seen before. This year, close to 1200 first-year students made their way to Zánka, with 300 international students among them, to start off one of the most impactful periods of their lives together.
The event is traditionally dual-purpose: on the one hand, it aims to give the freshly enrolled students an unforgettable social experience, on the other, it’s a way to support them to make sure they can start off their university years confidently and in a well-prepared manner. Accordingly, alongside the entertainment and leisure, a special emphasis was put on providing useful information as well.
The first days of the camp were dominated by forum days, where students could take part in introductory lectures connected to their faculties, then get to know the services, international opportunities and student organizations of the University. At the booths, everyone could ask their own personal questions, getting a glimpse at the variety of student life before the very beginning of the school year.
As usual, this year, one of the strongest pillars of community-building were the instructors who were present at the event. They made sure that the camp was full of life every single minute, motivated freshmen to take part in activities, and spent a countless amount of energy on making sure everyone is having a good time. In the background, the Students’ Union’s (HÖK) team worked on making sure every tiny detail of the organization efforts went as smoothly as possible, and that the event hosting hundreds of people would go without a hitch.
The experience wouldn’t have been complete without a variety of programs; sporting opportunities on the banks of Lake Balaton, thematic activities and the newly introduced cultural events all made sure that the camp would give everyone an unforgettable experience. Students could use these activities to not only get closer to each other, but the spirit of the University as well.
A specialty of this camp was the wine-tasting event, organized as a part of the Freshman Camp for the first time ever this year. The products of several renowned domestic wineries were presented here, and alongside the white, rosé and red wines, specialties were also present on the menu, further enhancing the cultural side of the camp. This was compounded by the emphasis the organizers put on making sure freshmen not only get to know one another, but the values and mentality at the University. Interactive lectures, forums and playful activities helped the participants with fitting in and preparing for the life at the university that awaits them.
The combined presence of more than 1200 people itself helped create a unique atmosphere. Hungarian and international students all took part in the programs together, giving them an opportunity to build connections and communities before the school year had even begun. During these 4 days, all freshmen could see first-hand that the community at Semmelweis University is an inclusive, supportive and inspiring environment where everyone can find their place.
Freshman Camp 2025 served as a worthy beginning of the new academic year. The experiences, friendships and knowledge students gained there together will grant them a massive amount of support for the years to come. We wish all first-year students a successful and eventful school year – since now, you’re all officially part of the Semmelweis community!
We’d like to thank the members of the Instructors’ Self-Active Group and the Students’ Union for their enthusiastic and devoted work!
Written by: Hanna Patkó
Translated by: Máté Márk Kis