Zsófia

Meet Zsófia, she's a second year student from Hungary.

Zsófia was able to attend UWC Atlantic thanks to the support of the Davis-UWC Dare to Dream programme and her National Committee.

I’m Hungarian, but I live in Romania—and like many people from border towns, my identity is layered, complex, and shaped by the intersection of cultures. Growing up, I never imagined I’d leave the region to study, let alone attend an international school.

Before UWC, my world was small. I studied in a tight-knit, fairly homogenous community in eastern Hungary and always assumed I’d attend university nearby. Studying abroad felt like a distant dream—especially considering how expensive it is and how limited the opportunities seemed for students like me. I used to see international education as something only accessible to those with resources I didn’t have.

But everything changed when my mom saw an ad for UWC. She showed it to me, and I thought, “Why not?” I’d applied for small opportunities before, so I gave it a try—not really expecting anything, but hopeful. That one decision led to a rollercoaster of transformation I’m still riding today.

These last two years at UWC Atlantic have been life-changing. I’ve grown not only as a student but as a person. I’ve worked on refugee support initiatives and joined a farm project to explore sustainable agriculture. I baked and fundraised, planted and painted, organized and supported. Every project has helped me grow new skills, and more importantly, deepen my empathy and understanding of the world.

One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been serving as Chair of Student Financial Services—helping peers who face financial barriers access things like transport, health care, or school activities that might otherwise be out of reach. As someone on a full scholarship myself, I know firsthand how big an impact even small gestures of support can make. Whether it was organizing a Valentine’s Day fundraiser or delivering roses with friends, I’ve learned that helping others is a form of leadership—and joy.

I’ve also discovered a passion for international politics and advocacy. Being part of a community with students from all over the world has given me perspectives I never could have imagined. Hearing their stories, sharing meals, debating global issues… it’s expanded my worldview in ways I’ll carry forever.

For university, I’ll be attending Middlebury College in Vermont, studying International Politics and Economics—thanks to continued support from the Davis-UWC Scholars Programme. I’m the first in my family to go to university, and it still feels surreal. My parents, who grew up under a communist regime where opportunities like this were unimaginable, are proud beyond words. They’re amazed that a programme like this exists—where students from all backgrounds can access world-class education with the help of generous scholarships.

To those who make Davis-UWC Dare to Dream Programme possible: thank you. Your support doesn't just change individual lives—it transforms communities. When you invest in education, you’re not just helping one person—you’re starting ripple effects that reach families, towns, and futures.

In five or ten years, I know I’ll look back on this chapter and remember not just the classes, but the friendships, the late-night talks, the sunny days in Wales, the hard moments that helped me grow, and the belief that opportunity can find you—even in the smallest corners of the world.