From the Student Lab to a Multinational Medical Company

Our recent Alumni Gathering in Jordan, Amman was a special opportunity to reconnect with members of our growing international community. Seeing former students come together, share memories, and celebrate their journey beyond Pécs reminded us of the lasting bonds created during their studies. One of the alumni we had the pleasure of meeting was Ahmad. We sat down with him to reflect on his time in Hungary and the impact it has had on his life and career. Here is what he shared with us: 

What did you study at the University of Pecs? 

I studied an MSc in Clinical Laboratory Sciences at the University of Pécs, Faculty of Health Sciences (PTE-ETK). What made it especially impressive was that we were the very first graduating cohort of this program at the University. 

Where are you now, and how did your journey after graduation unfold? 

After graduating from the University of Pécs, I began working in the healthcare field and currently serve as a Clinical Product Manager managing the Middle East (ME) region in a multinational medical company. In this role, I combine my background in Clinical Laboratory Sciences with strategic and clinical insight, bridging the gap between laboratory practice and medical innovation. The strong scientific foundation I gained in Pécs continues to guide my professional growth. 

What moment in Pécs truly shaped your experience as a student? 

The moment that truly shaped me was performing my first independent laboratory analysis during clinical practice for my thesis project. Standing in the lab, realizing that my results could directly influence patient care, transformed my mindset from “student” to “future healthcare professional.” It was both humbling and empowering. 

How did living in Hungary change you personally or professionally? 

Living in Hungary was transformative both personally and professionally. Personally, it strengthened my independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness, as I navigated life in a new country and built meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Professionally, it taught me discipline, critical thinking, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving—skills that continue to guide me in my role.  

If you could give one piece of advice to prospective students looking to study at the University of Pecs, what would it be? 

My advice would be: Be proactive and fully engage with every opportunity. The University of Pécs offers strong academic and practical opportunities, but your growth depends on how much you engage. Ask questions, participate seriously in all aspects of your studies, and build professional relationships early. 

If your time in Pécs had a soundtrack, what song would it be and why? 

If my time in Pécs had a soundtrack, it would be “Hall of Fame” by The Script. The song reflects ambition, perseverance, and believing in your potential—values that defined my journey as a Clinical Laboratory Sciences student. It captures the determination to overcome challenges, grow personally and professionally, and make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. 

If you could meet anyone from Pecs (classmate, teacher, friend, etc.), who would it be and why? 

I would love to meet my thesis supervisor, Prof. Kőszegi Tamás Antal. His guidance and mentorship during my research were invaluable. He taught me how to think critically, analyze data rigorously, and approach scientific questions with precision and clarity. His support not only shaped my thesis but also strengthened my professional mindset and confidence as a future Clinical Laboratory Scientist. 

If you want to, you can share some anecdote from you student life in Pecs 

The Dorm Kitchen Disaster: An international cooking night in the dorm. Everyone wanted to impress each other. My roommate tried to cook rice without water. Another set off the fire alarm. By the end, we ordered pizza and called it “cultural exchange.” 

Was there a professor, course, or experience at the University of Pécs that had a lasting impact on you? How? 

Yes, the course “Biomarkers in Clinical Diagnosis”, delivered by Prof. Kőszegi Tamás Antal and Dr. Zoltán Horváth-Szalai at the University of Pécs, had a lasting impact on me. Their lectures provided deep insight into how biomarkers guide clinical decision-making, especially in critical conditions such as sepsis. The course directly influenced my decision to choose a thesis topic related to this field, allowing me to build upon my previous experience in sepsis management. It helped me connect clinical practice with research, strengthening my scientific thinking and reinforcing my commitment to evidence-based laboratory medicine. 

What surprised you the most about studying in Hungary? 

What surprised me the most was the balance between professional development and personal growth in Hungary and Pécs. The University of Pécs provided advanced education, research opportunities, and practical experience in the laboratory, while the city itself offered rich cultural experiences, historic sites, and a supportive student community. This combination accelerated my growth, shaping me both as a skilled professional and as a confident individual. 

If you could relive one day from your student life in Pécs, which day would it be? 

If I could relive one period from my student life in Pécs, it would be the days of my thesis defense and subsequent oral exam. Defending my thesis was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating — presenting months of research, answering professors’ questions, and realizing the responsibility of working with real patient data. Just after that, I took my oral exam, and the challenging questions pushed me to think critically and explain concepts clearly. Achieving a high score of 5 with an outstanding classification made the experience unforgettable, leaving me with a deep sense of pride, confidence, and accomplishment in my academic journey. 

What skills or mindset from your time at the University of Pécs do you use most in your career today? 

Studying at the University of Pécs shaped not only my technical skills but also my professional mindset. I learned to approach challenges methodically, think critically, and adapt quickly to new situations. The experience of conducting research, collaborating with professors, and working alongside international classmates strengthened my problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities. These lessons continue to guide me today in my career, where I balance scientific understanding with strategic decision-making to deliver effective solutions and drive impact.