From Rennes to Pécs in a Van: A Journey of Curiosity

One Stork  two thousand kilometers 

When Margot packed up her van in Rennes and set her sights on Hungary, she knew she wasn’t just setting off on another trip. She was stepping into the unknown, a new country, a new language, and a new challenge as part of the EDUC Staff Secondment programme. And yet, when she arrived in Pécs after the long drive, a familiar view welcomed her: a stork in its nest.  “It was like home,” she smiled. “Even in a completely different place.” 

Making a home in motion 

Margot didn’t just bring her suitcase – she brought her home on wheels. Choosing to live in a van wasn’t just about adventure; it was a conscious decision born from a love for animals, a need for freedom, and a desire for simplicity. “Apartments are expensive,” she said.

“And when you live in a van, you take your home with you. That makes you free.” 

Balancing life on the road with a full-time role at the University of Pécs’ International Centre meant juggling different time zones, languages, and responsibilities. “Coffee was essential,” she laughed. Her days were often split: mornings in Pécs, afternoons working remotely with her team in Rennes. And in between? Walking the dog, adjusting to Hungary, and adapting to the everyday.

Want to Join the Next Round?

EDUC Staff Secondments is already in the works for 2026. If you’re curious about swapping desks, expanding your horizons, and diving into international collaboration, this is your chance!

📅 Application deadline: 15 September 2025

🔗 Details and application: EDUC Staff Secondment 2026

🌐 For more information on EDUC opportunities for staff: EDUC Staff

When the cat ran away 

One of the more dramatic moments of her stay involved her cat – who promptly disappeared upon leaving Rennes. Flyers went up, friends searched, and a week later, he came home. “He just needed time,” Margot said, a sentiment that also seemed to mirror her own adaptation to her new environment.

Mapping connections, building bridges 

Margot’s role was more than just learning a new city; she focused on mapping local societal outreach partners to help EDUC deepen its community ties in Pécs. “It’s not just about working somewhere new, it’s about creating real connections,” she explained. Her research provides a valuable foundation for future collaboration, showing how universities and communities can come together for mutual benefit. 

Finding comfort in chaos 

Margot also found unexpected comfort in the familiar rhythms of life and the landscapes of rural Hungary.

"The houses and even some birds reminded me of the different regions of France. What surprised me most was how familiar people felt, even across borders. We all carry the same hopes, the same weariness, the same kindness.” 

Lessons from Pécs 

Living abroad made her reflect on the difference between perception and reality. “Media often paints a picture that doesn’t match everyday life. Governments and people are not the same. Here, I saw complexity and resilience.” She also experienced moments of sadness and helplessness in the community but found those human emotions are universal. 

Advice for future seconders 

Would she recommend the experience to others? “Yes, but it’s not easy. You’ll feel lonely sometimes. Isolated. But that’s part of growth.” Her honest advice highlights that the challenge is real, but so is the reward. 

What comes next? 

Before heading back to Rennes, Margot plans to explore more of Hungary, Budapest, Tihany, and wherever the road might take her. There may be professional changes on the horizon, perhaps even a new role back in France.

“Even the hard moments become part of the story. And sometimes, they’re the ones that change you the most.” 

Interested in your own journey?  The next call for staff secondments under the EDUC Alliance is now open. Take a step, follow the road – you never know what you’ll find. 

EDUC Staff Secondments is already in the works for 2026. If you’re curious about swapping desks, expanding your horizons, and diving into international collaboration, this is your chance!

📅 Application deadline: 15 September 2025

🔗 Details and application: EDUC Staff Secondment 2026

🌐 For more information on EDUC opportunities for staff: EDUC Staff