Most study abroad programs have either no particular focus, or are focused on some area other than mathematics. The Budapest Semesters program is the exception. The following description was written by Jenn Gyori '92 and updated by Amy Hawthorne '00, who both participated in the program:
The Budapest Semesters in Mathematics program offers mathematics majors the opportunity to study and travel abroad and to broaden their mathematical horizons at the same time. The program offers a broad spectrum of intermediate and advanced mathematics courses taught (in English!) by respected Hungarian professors, as well as courses in Hungarian language and culture and European history. Most of the classes focus on the Hungarian fortes of discrete math and analysis. Classes are interesting and challenging, and the problems are often more difficult than you would encounter at Smith, but the workload is lighter. If you are considering going, it is in your best interest to complete Modern Algebra and Intro to Analysis before you attend BSM.
Students live either with a host Hungarian family or in an apartment with another student from the program. Either choice of living arrangements has its benefits and adds a wonderful dimension to the experience. Because of the current economic situation in Hungary one dollar equals about 240 forints (but that exchange rate has changed rapidly in the past year). A meal out might cost you 600 ft, cover at a disco is between 200 - 500 ft, and a trip to the opera is about 500 ft. Public transportation is cheap and excellent, there are even night busses along the main routes. The program schedule allows students the opportunity to travel around Hungary itself and to other nearby countries, such as Italy, Czech, Slovakia, Poland, and Germany.
Students can choose to attend the program for either a semester or a full year. Although a year's stay offers the most opportunity to learn about the Hungarian language and culture and to take more of the great courses the program offers, it is really a semester-based program and one semester will give you the time to enjoy all the amazing aspects of Budapest. Students who cannot afford to go abroad for more than one semester due to other requirements or commitments should keep the one semester option in mind as a unique opportunity to study mathematics abroad and meet those obligations at the same time. The program is highly recommended for any major (or math enthusiast!) interested in studying abroad. If you are interested, you should speak to your advisor or past participants.
Stephanie Jakus went to Budapest in the 2003-2004 academic year.