Can you tell us a little about how you got into swimming and which university you attended in the United States?

I started swimming when I was three years old. My mother wanted me to feel confident in the water. Thanks to her, all three of my siblings and I eventually became competitive swimmers. I studied and competed at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan, where I graduated in May 2026.

Looking back, why did you decide to study and swim in the United States?

When I think back on why I chose the U.S., I’d say the biggest influences were older athletes, my sense of adventure, and, of course, swimming itself. I was also excited by the opportunity to build friendships and connections with people from all around the world.

Now that you’ve graduated, how do you think this experience has changed you, both as a person and as an athlete?

Looking back, I truly believe I became a completely different person over those four years. Living abroad taught me how to be more independent, helped me make friends from many different cultures, and gave me the opportunity to be part of an amazing team.

What do you see as the biggest differences between Hungarian and American swimming culture, training methods, and the collegiate competition system?

I think the American swimming culture is a bit more relaxed and less formal than the Hungarian one. During practices in the U.S., it’s common to have loud music playing and teammates chatting, while in Hungary the team is usually focused entirely on training.

The competition system is also much more team-oriented in the United States, whereas in Hungary the focus is mainly on individual results.

Who has played the biggest role in helping you get to where you are today?

I owe my success primarily to my mother, as well as to my siblings.

How did Study N Sport help you throughout your journey?

Study N Sport helped me find the university that was the best fit for me, and they were always willing to help whenever I had questions or needed support.

What was the most challenging part of your years in the United States, and what was your favorite memory?

The hardest part was probably returning after the summer break each year, because I always had to adjust back to the demanding routine.

What did collegiate swimming in the United States give you beyond earning a degree and developing your athletic career?

America gave me lifelong friendships, valuable connections, and countless travel opportunities that I will never forget.

What are you doing now, and how much is swimming still a part of your life?

I’m currently preparing to begin a Master’s degree in Finance and Investments, which I’ll be pursuing in England. I don’t swim very often anymore, but whenever I do, I still enjoy it.

If you could start over, would you do it all again? Why?

Absolutely. If I had the chance, I would do it all over again. This journey took me to places I never imagined I would have the opportunity to experience. If someone is considering studying in the United States, I can only recommend it.