What does it take to make the transition from a British School of Sofia IB student to a Transatlantic Diplomatic Fellow in the US Department of State?

This is the story of Fanni Szabo, BSS Class of 2019 alumna. Her story is proof that hard work, determination, and a solid academic foundation pay off when you start pursuing your dreams.

After graduating with an outstanding IB diploma from BSS, Fanni went to university in Hungary where she studied international relations. She also participated in an exchange programme in Spain. 

Once she obtained her degree, Fanni joined the Hungarian Diplomatic Academy, a one-year programme designed to train diplomats. Upon successfully completing the training, she joined the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and she’s been working there since 2022.

Currently, Fanni works at the Hungarian embassy in Washington DC, and she’s also a Transatlantic Diplomatic Fellow with the US Department of State. The Transatlantic Fellow Programme aims to deepen the bonds between the US and Europe. For over 30 years, it has established itself as one of the largest diplomatic fellowship programmes in the world.

A Multinational Environment at BSS Shaped Up a Career Path

“Before going to Sofia, I never studied English, so it was a very hard time for me,” Fanni shared. “But then I managed it, I completed the IB diploma, and that was a tough lesson for me. I did take away from it a lot. I learned a lot, and I don’t mean just English.”

The BSS experience taught Fanni “how to put up with a new system, how to get used to a new environment that you’re just dropped in without any language knowledge.” Having to adapt and being immersed in a multi-national environment gave her a solid foundation that would prove to be especially beneficial later on. “I believe that BSS was a perfect starting point, especially for this career,” she concluded.”

“I believe that being at BSS is a huge opportunity, I enjoyed my time in Sofia, I loved being there. It was a difficult time, but… [it] was a beautiful time. It really pushed me to my limit, but I think it is possible to overcome [limitations]. Whenever you face [challenges], there are people to help you there, and I think that making the most of it is the best option that you have right now.” 

Fanni is an inspiring example of how commitment to pursuing a dream pays off. To find out more about her journey and the professional experiences she’s had after graduating from BSS, please check out the following video: