Q & A: Hungarian precision agriculture student studying at SDSU as part of exchange program
An exchange student at ĢƵ is taking advantage of a new academic agreement in the college’s precision agriculture program. SDSU and the University of Debrecen in Hungary signed an academic cooperation agreement back in May 2025, creating an official partnership to connect the precision agriculture programs of both universities. Students can earn a bachelor’s degree from both universities by completing a combined program of coursework.
Csenge Tarjanyi is part of the first cohort of students from the University of Debrecen to participate in the program. She decided to travel to the United States because she says it is “The Land of Opportunity.” Csenge was attracted to what SDSU had to offer, focusing on the many different types of research and world travel. She plans to start her masters in the precision agriculture program back in Debrecen after graduation in May 2027, researching micro greens. We had the opportunity to sit down and hear about Csenge’s experience in the United States, and here is what we learned:
What is your background in agriculture or precision agriculture?
Csenge: At home, we have horses. My family is very into horses, so it grew into having a ranch.
What program are you in?
Csenge: A double-degree program between the University of Debrecen and SDSU – specifically for precision agriculture students. Hungarian students can come here, and SDSU plans to create a study abroad program for SDSU students to visit Hungary for about three weeks to see farms and learn about the country.
Why did you decide to do this program?
Csenge: It was a huge opportunity to come to America. People say it’s the “Land of Opportunity,” and as a Hungarian, it really feels like the world opened. I never feel bored, there’s so much to do, and the university offers many opportunities for research and travel. I’ve always loved traveling, so it felt perfect.
What has your experience been like so far?
Csenge: The beginning was hard. I missed home, friends and family and I struggled to find my place. But I met very nice people, made friends and started going to church, where everyone was welcoming. Now I feel at home here even though I still miss Hungary. I’m enjoying my semester and gaining hands‑on experience. I feel like coming here was a good decision.
Is SDSU what you expected?
Csenge: I had some prejudgments based on movies and news. I was nervous about things, but Brookings is extremely safe, one of the safest campuses in the U.S., so I feel comfortable here. This part of the country feels like home: friendly people and a safe campus.
What surprised you most?
Csenge:
- The size of everything — especially the campus. At home, campuses are small and spread across the city. Here, campus feels like its own village with food, shopping and everything in one place.
- Houses without fences, which makes neighborhoods look less cluttered.
- One‑gallon milk jugs.
Q: How does the precision ag program compare?
Csenge:
- At home, lectures are optional and labs are required. Here, it depends on the professor, but most students attend lectures.
- After the semester, we have seven weeks to take exams whenever we choose. SDSU has much more homework; at home, we have almost none.
- SDSU is more practical—using equipment, going to fields, hands‑on learning. Both systems have strengths, but I love the practical side here.
Q: What work are you doing this summer?
Csenge:
- I work in horticulture helping a graduate student with hydroponics research.
- I also work in the vineyard with Dr. Fount doing fieldwork like planting.
- I’m doing my own research with Dr. Yang and a graduate student. It will become my thesis for my bachelor’s degree at home.
Q: What do you plan to do after graduating?
Csenge: I’ll start my master’s degree. My sponsor pays for everything now, and when I return home, I must work for them for one year. I may work and study at the same time.
To learn more about the exchange program, read more about it in this story. The SDSU precision agriculture program is a collaboration between College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences; Departments of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science.
