"I’d recommend BME for those who have a passion for engineering"

Why did you choose BME to do your PhD?

BME has a strong international reputation, especially in engineering and technology. It is known for its high academic standard and cutting-edge researchers, especially experienced professors. I felt I would come to one of the leading technical universities in Europe. So, it was my first option when I submitted my application for the scholarship programme.

How did you hear about the university back in Iraq?

I heard about it from a few friends of mine, then I looked it up on the internet.

You had done your MSc in Iraq, right?

Yes, at the University of Al-Qadisiyah. I took the first rank among the students, just like during my BSc training. It was my dream to continue my higher studies abroad.

What is your specialization?

It was civil engineering in BSc, structural engineering in MSc and now my PhD is focused on 3D printed concrete and especially developing a sustainable, printable material. I was the first PhD student in Hungary who was involved in 3D printing concrete. This technology will bring new opportunities for the construction industry due to its potential such as construction without using any formwork, reducing the construction time, cost, and even human involvement.

How do you expect to utilize your knowledge at home?

I hope I will be able to contribute to the modernization of the Iraqi construction sector. I already have a job there, I’m employed by the government, at the Ministry of Education. I’ve been on a study leave here.

Would you recommend BME for international students?

Absolutely, yes. I would highly recommend it especially for students who have a passion for engineering. They’ll find here an excellent learning environment, well-equipped labs and very supportive staff and professors.

Did you find the environment to be supportive of students with families as well?

Yes, everyone at BME was welcoming. I remember the first day I came here and had a meeting with my supervisor, Professor László György Balázs. He was shocked when he heard that I already had three children. But he was so supportive during my journey here, just like the whole staff at the Department of Construction Materials and Technologies. People were bringing gifts and chocolate for my kids before Halloween and Christmas.

Marwah with Professor Balázs

Can you recall any difficulties in scheduling your studies and your private life?

Well, it was a big challenge to manage taking care of the three kids, but fortunately I have a very supportive husband. The first year I had a busy schedule and he was always available when needed. During the second year I had a more flexible schedule, so he could start his MSc at the same department. And after he finished his studies, he often came to help me at the lab.

And what about the kids? How did they settle in?

First of all, they had a great opportunity to attend kindergarten and school here, we felt very safe during our stay. However, in the beginning, the language was difficult for them. I remember my oldest son, Abdullah, going to school the first day. When we went to pick him, he told me he was so scared because he couldn't understand a single word. But his teacher turned out to be a super nice woman, helped him a lot and always sent emails to the families of the other children asking to support him. And at the end of the year, he was able to understand and speak Hungarian. They even highlighted him as one of the outstanding students. Now all my kids speak Hungarian fluently, way better than I do. I’m so proud of them.

Did you know anything about Hungary and Budapest before coming here?

I knew that Budapest was a beautiful historical city, had a lot of architectural heritage, but I didn't know that much about the daily life, culture or the language. Therefore, it was and exciting experience for us.

Did you experience any cultural shocks?

No, I wouldn’t say that. Maybe because one thing is quite similar to the Iraqi culture: family is very important. So, I can only remember positive experiences. For example, after arriving here, we went to a farm to pick apples and the owner, and old and very kind man, said we did not have to pay at all. He asked where we were from, so we had a brief chat which was not easy as he did not speak English and we did not speak any Hungarian yet. We used an online translator.

Do your family and you enjoy living here?

We truly enjoy living here, the quality of life, the culture, the diversity, the city with its efficient public transportation. My kids learned a new language, learned ballet, swimming, skating, singing. And we had the opportunity to discover this beautiful country, visiting several places like Zamárdi, Szentendre, Tata, Szeged. We really appreciate the Hungarian people, culture and education.

Did you consider staying long term?

Actually, we did, especially because of the opportunities in education and research, and the good environment for raising children. Well, my kids definitely do not want to go back to Iraq, which is understandable – one of my daughters was only five years old when we came here and now she is nine. She has almost all her memories from here. She said, "I don't want to leave my teacher, my school and my best friend". But we miss our relatives and it was always our goal to return home to apply our knowledge in Iraq. Also, I have a commitment to the government as it supported my studies here, so I have to go home anyway. I hope we can keep in touch with the academic community and friends here.

What is your most important takeaway from BME, both professionally and privately?

Professionally, I gained advanced experience and technical expertise in sustainable concrete materials and hands-on experience with 3D concrete printing technology. The collaboration with my supervisor and fellow researchers helped me to expand my knowledge as a researcher. Personally, I gained unforgettable memories and good friendships. I will miss everyone here in the Department of Construction Materials and Technologies.

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