Six years ago, I arrived in Pécs as a student. Two years ago, I somehow became the President of ESN Pécs. And now, here I am, close to the end of my official stay in this city, trying to fit six years of memories into one blog post without getting emotional. No promises.

Being President for two years has been one of the most fun, intense, rewarding, exhausting, and unforgettable experiences of my life. On paper, it meant managing a large team, coordinating committees, planning events, handling crises, answering messages at unreasonable hours, and making decisions that actually mattered. In reality, it also meant laughing backstage before events, dancing when I was supposed to supervise, and realizing that leadership often happens in very small moments.

Lessons from the Office

I learned how to manage people, I learned how to trust people, I learned how to let go of control when needed. And occasionally, I learned how to survive on coffee, adrenaline, and pure ESN spirit.

What surprised me the most was not the big achievements, the packed calendars, or the successful events. It was the little moments that stayed with me. Sitting on the floor after an event when everyone had left. Late-night walks home after meetings that were supposed to be short. Random conversations with volunteers that turned into friendships. Watching new members slowly grow into confident coordinators, then leaders themselves.

Yes, being President was serious. But it was also playful, messy and most importantly: Human.

More Than Just a City

There is something special about leading a student organization where passion matters more than perfection. Where people show up after long days of classes. Where mistakes happen, lessons follow, and memories stick forever. Pécs stopped being a city a long time ago. It became a timeline of moments. First events attended as a participant. First responsibilities. First time leading something bigger than myself. Six years later, it feels strange to say goodbye to a place that shaped me this much.

As my official stay in Pécs comes to an end, I feel grateful. For the trust. For the chaos. For the friendships. For the people who believed in me, challenged me, supported me, and sometimes reminded me to slow down and enjoy what we were building.

Parting Words

If you are reading this as a current or future student, here is my advice: Say yes, take responsibility and enjoy the big roles. But never forget the small moments for they are the ones you will miss the most.

This is not really a goodbye. It is a thank you. To ESN Pécs, to this city, and to six years that I will always carry with me.