Week Two: I survived!

As the title of this post suggests, I survived my second week in Hungary! And I love it! My students are seriously so kind and fun to be around, the teachers are funny and nice, and Sarkad is peaceful.  Life is good.

A Valentine's Day Gift from one of my classes! 

Some of my friends and family from home are interested in hearing about the differences between American and Hungarian high schools.  First, please realize that I am only describing my experiences at the school I am teaching at in Sarkad.  I don't know if all Hungarian schools are set up in the same way. Secondly, I might get a few things wrong anyway because I am still trying to figure things out! Half the time I am confused, so bear with me.

In the States, teachers stay in one classroom and the students move from class to class.  In Hungary, the students have a classroom and the teacher goes to them (there is one room for the teachers where we each have a desk and a place to store things, etc.). This sounds relatively simple until you take into consideration that the classes are split in half based on students skill level or what they are studying, so half of the students will go to a different classroom and the teacher will meet them there.  This practice has been challenging at times when I forget to look at the schedule and don't know where I am supposed to be, or when I do look at the schedule but apparently I am supposed to go with my students somewhere else.  However, this is all fine, and I am getting more used to it.

Another difference is the time in between classes. In the States students have five minutes or something to go to their locker, switch their books, and change classes.  In Hungary, there are ten minutes between classes! Having more time is so helpful.  It's nice to recharge and mentally prepare for the next class.  I wonder how my high school teachers managed to be ready in so little time!

In terms of the students themselves, classroom etiquette is a bit different.  I remember when I was in high school (and college for that matter) my teachers would ask a question to the class and someone (a lot of the time it was me because I'm weird like that) would answer.  In Hungary the students seem unused to that and don't answer unless you directly ask them a question.  However, I think we are getting used to each other, so when I ask if they understand most students will nod or shake their heads accordingly.

Part of the school grounds

The main school building

Now for a funny anecdote! Grocery shopping has been the most difficult part of living in a culture where I don't speak or understand the language, so when I buy things I tend to look at pictures and just wing it! Well, I was trying to buy cooking oil, and accidently bought vinegar instead! Face palm! I laughed pretty hard at the situation! I'm sure I will have more embarrassing/ entertaining stories to share once I start travelling around Hungary more.

Well, that's all for now.  I hope to visit Bekescsaba tomorrow, so I'll share more when there is more to tell!