Belgium

In February 2024, I visited Leuven, Belgium, to attend a two-day hackathon—an intense and inspiring event that brought together bright minds from diverse backgrounds to collaborate, innovate, and solve real-world challenges. Though short, my stay in Leuven was meaningful, and the experience left a lasting impression on my academic journey and personal growth. It was my first European country after Hungary to visit.

Leuven is a historic and vibrant city located in the Flemish Region of Belgium, about 25 kilometres east of Brussels. It is widely recognized as one of the country’s most prominent university towns — home to KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven), one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities, founded in 1425. The city radiates an intellectual atmosphere, rich with tradition yet brimming with youthful energy thanks to its large student population.

Belgium itself is a small yet significant country in Western Europe, bordered by France, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and the North Sea. Known for its multilingual culture, global diplomacy (hosting the European Union and NATO), and high quality of life, Belgium is a country that harmoniously blends history, innovation, and cultural diversity.

Leuven perfectly embodies this spirit. During my visit, I was struck by the city’s beautiful blend of medieval architecture and modern living. The Leuven Town Hall, with its ornate Gothic facade, and the Old Market Square (Oude Markt), often called the “longest bar in the world” due to its many cafes, reflect the city’s rich heritage and vibrant social life.

The hackathon I attended was more than just a competition — it was a space of creativity, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange. It allowed me to connect with talented individuals from across Europe, expand my skills, and challenge my thinking in ways that continue to inspire my research and professional development.

Even in just two days, Leuven felt welcoming, intellectually stimulating, and full of character. It reminded me how travel and brief encounters can shape us in profound ways. Belgium — and Leuven in particular — will always stand out in my memory as a place of inspiration and growth.