Meet Bendeguz Aubeli, or as he’s known in his home country of Hungary, Aubeli Bendeguz. Coming from Budapest to California, Aubeli has had a remarkable journey to where he is now at Cal State Fullerton.
Aubeli’s education in the United States began at West Valley Community College in San Jose. Upon learning about CSUF’s plan to launch a new men’s water polo team, he seized the opportunity and reached out to the head coach, ultimately becoming the team’s first recruit.
“I was offered a good scholarship, and I’ve been studying at CSUF ever since,” said Aubeli.
As a student-athlete, Aubeli balances an intense schedule. With water polo season running from early September to mid-November, 33 games are packed into those three months — a stark contrast to the nine-month season he was accustomed to in Hungary.
“It’s very strenuous and fast-paced,” said Aubeli. “Taking care of academics next to all these games is pretty difficult. We would play one game, and then in the rest in between, I would work on my homework. Then, I’d go back and play another game. It’s exhausting but rewarding.”
With only three games left in the season, this fall marks the end of his water polo career. Now with water polo coming to a close, Aubeli has turned his attention to professional opportunities. He started applying for internships through the Cal State DC Scholars program, which allows students to intern in Washington, D.C., and earn academic credit.
He is set to graduate in spring 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. His post-graduation plan includes taking advantage of Optional Practical Training, a program that extends his student visa for one year, allowing him to work in the U.S.
“I’m talking to professors who work in local and county governments, hoping to network and secure a job after graduation,” he said. He aims to save money during his OPT year and eventually pursue a master’s degree in political science.
For other international students, Aubeli said it’s important to “be creative and don’t give up. International students have to work twice as hard when it comes to studying. He also emphasizes the importance of building connections by staying in touch with faculty members.
“Finding people and resources has always been helpful to me, and I’m confident they’ll help me figure out my future in the U.S.,” said Aubeli.
Watch Aubeli’s full interview video on YouTube.
Visit the CSUF International Education and Engagement website to learn more about opportunities to study in the U.S.