First “America Day” Kicks off in Orosháza

December 1, 2009

Political officer Jon Martinson at the Táncsics High School in Orosháza

The first day-long celebration of “America Day” had a very successful run at the Táncsics Mihály High School in the eastern town of Orosháza.

Embassy Political Officer Jon Martinson spoke to more than fifty students about what it means to be an “American Diplomat.” He described his daily routine, the role of the political section of the Embassy and also touched upon the foreign policy of President Obama. Regional English Language Officer (RELO) Lisa Harshbarger talked to school teachers about special English training programs and Cultural Affairs Assistant Kati Biró spoke about internet material available online about the United States as well as possibilities of studying there. Senior Educational Advisor Kornélia Litkei led a resume writing workshop for a mixed audience of students and faculty. Meanwhile, a photo exhibition entitled “Fascinating New York” served as a backdrop for a presentation by an American university student currently studying in Hungary. A total of 100 students and teachers participated in these events.

“America Day” is a joint project of the U.S. Embassy and the Hungarian Ministry of Education and Culture to highlight America and its culture at schools in Hungary. Eleven other schools across Hungary will be holding “America Days” over the coming year.