Education entered Dr. Dóra Szepesi-Bencsik's life when she was required to engage in teaching activities during her doctoral studies. At that time, she was more interested in pursuing a career in research, but this changed by the end of her full-time PhD program, and after joining the Faculty of Engineering, where teaching became the focus of her career. We asked our associate professor, who is also qualified as an environmental toxicologist, what challenges today’s educators face.
“There are always challenges, but I think it doesn’t really matter what job we’re talking about. What I see in education, perhaps, is the difficulty in finding a connection with today’s younger generation. I’m relatively young and have a fairly relaxed style, yet even I find it difficult at times. Another big challenge is keeping students' attention. What worked in the past, like giving a lecture and putting together a slideshow full of colorful pictures, is no longer enough. Keeping up with science and the profession is not really a challenge, in my view—it’s just part of life. The world is constantly changing, and we need to keep up with those changes,” explained our colleague from the Institute of Food Engineering.
The Future of Education Lies in Experience-Based Learning
We also asked the associate professor how educators can better connect with today’s university students.
“In my opinion, experience-based learning is key, as today’s young people are very experience-oriented. Focusing on practical aspects is becoming increasingly important. Students find it easier to learn when they can actually do things, feel them, and observe them. Another factor is maintaining attention and respect while still conveying the seriousness of the academic environment, but communicating in a way that reaches students more effectively. Introducing interactive elements is also important. I believe this could be the way to engage them: by providing experience-rich education.”
The Importance of Gratitude
During our conversation, Dr. Dóra Szepesi-Bencsik also emphasized how much she owes to others and how the environment of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Szeged has greatly influenced her.
“I am very grateful to those educators under whose guidance I studied, because I believe that their positive influence is reflected not only in my personal life views, but also greatly in my teaching philosophies. At SZTE's Ságvári High School, as well as during my university years at Szent István University in Gödöllő, I was taught by truly exceptional educators. I was fortunate to have many ‘old masters’ teach me; real experts in their fields, and I also draw a lot from the respect-based teaching that both professors and students showed. I owe a lot to the collective at the Faculty of Engineering and especially to the colleagues who mentored me when I joined nearly ten years ago, because they helped me integrate and adjust to the rhythm of teaching. I’m grateful to the people who shaped me and perhaps continue to shape me to this day,” - our associate professor continued. “It’s a normal part of life to accept feedback, whether it comes from students or colleagues, and I think this is a message for young educators: incorporate the good practices you observe from your mentors. Perhaps this is why I’m so grateful to everyone I’ve learned from and will continue to learn from.”
The ‘Mother’ of the Dr. Huszka Tibor Food Industry Professional Club
Anyone familiar with the professional circles of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Szeged knows that Dr. Dóra Szepesi-Bencsik is an indispensable figure in the faculty's food industry professional club, so, we asked how she became part of this team!
“The Professional Club came into my life when the Bonafarm group approached the Faculty more than five years ago. István Barok and Gergő Pókos gave a presentation to colleagues and students, outlining their vision for the Professional Club. I attended that presentation, and afterward, I sat down with the then Vice-Dean Horváth Zsuzsa, and offered my help. This came naturally to me because I had previously been the head of the Fisheries and Angling Specialized vocational school at Szent István University for three years, so I had some experience, and I loved - and still love, the world of professional clubs and specialized schools because I believe they offer significant advantages.”
Naturally, we were also curious about who our educator recommends the club to.
“I highly recommend it to any student who wants to learn more than a classroom setting has to offer, and to those who have the dedication, because it does require some extra effort. I especially recommend it to those who want to broaden their knowledge and increase their success in the job market, as members can build strong professional networks during their university years. Of course, this involves some extra work, but seeing the numbers and hearing feedback from former club members, it’s definitely worth it, as many now work in excellent positions in the industry,” explained the club’s academic coordinator.
Young Educator of the Year
The “Young Educator of the Year” award is given to three educators annually by the University of Szeged. This year, our popular associate professor, Dr. Dóra Szepesi-Bencsik, received the award on September 7, 2024.
“I received the ‘Young Educator of the Year’ award at the University’s opening ceremony from the Rector. I’m extremely proud of this award because the students’ decision played a crucial role in it. Based on their votes, the Faculty Council decided I would receive this recognition this year. I truly think the best feedback for an educator is when students say that you’re doing a good job. It’s a huge honor for me, and I’m very touched by it. Thank you very much to my students!” shared our colleague from the Institute of Food Engineering.
The Ongoing Development of the Vehicle Fleet
We were also curious about how our young educator spends her time outside the university walls.
“Well, I know it might sound strange coming from an agricultural educator, but I spend my free time focusing on technical pursuits. Many of my colleagues, and even students, know that I’m a big car enthusiast. My husband and I share a passion for cars and car repair. We’re particularly fond of vintage cars, and we often attend vintage car meets and tours. Additionally, we love to travel, and during our travels, I’m always drawn to visiting natural science museums because I’ve been fascinated by the natural sciences. Of course, getting to know the gastronomy of the regions we visit is also a must,” our associate professor from the Institute of Food Engineering shared about her hobbies.
Photos: Dr. Dóra Szepesi-Bencsik
