Meet our students abroad! István János Pekár is a 26-year-old first-year PhD student at the Doctoral School of History at Károli Gáspár University. Currently based in the United States on a research scholarship, he is continuing his academic journey at Grace College in Indiana, after completing both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Károli.
István’s research focuses on the life and work of Hungarian politician Gyula Pekár, exploring his studies in Boston in the 1880s and his diplomatic role in U.S.–Hungarian relations during and after the First World War. His work also touches on a broader historical context, including his family’s legacy in engineering and transatlantic connections.
Alongside his academic career, István is an accomplished filmmaker. His latest film, MALENKIJ, premiered in 2025 and won the Grand Prize at the Hokkaido International Film Festival, with further nominations in New York and Madrid. His work spans documentaries, music videos, and experimental films, often focusing on historical and social themes.
During his time in the United States, István has conducted research in Chicago and Boston and continues to expand both his academic and professional network. At Grace College, he works closely with faculty mentors while also engaging with the local community and film industry.
Reflecting on his experience abroad, István values the openness, sense of community, and work ethic he has encountered. For him, this period represents both academic growth and personal discovery—one that continues to shape his future ambitions.
Read his story on our International Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXpOA_JjJaz/?img_index=1
