For the thirteenth time, the Csányi Foundation and the Bonafarm Group announced the “Practice Makes Perfect” competition for their secondary school and higher education students. The aim of the program is to assist conscious career choices, as well as to create opportunities for building professional relationships and becoming familiar with the world of work.
This year, 29 young people submitted successful applications. Participants can gain first-hand experience in various professional fields: they can gain insight into daily work processes, learn about the tasks and responsibilities associated with different job roles, and discover the competencies essential for successfully practicing a given profession. The program thus provides valuable help for young people to make well-founded decisions about their future studies and career paths.
Snapshots of the professional days can be viewed in the Gallery
BonOffice Zrt.:
“Within the framework of the ‘Practice Makes Perfect’ foundation grant, we had the opportunity to visit (on November 3) two subsidiaries of Bonafarm Zrt., Pick Szeged Zrt. and BonOffice Zrt. They passed on a vast amount of knowledge to us, showing us how the days of the finance department unfold, what their tasks are, and what a huge system they have to oversee and manage. I personally gained a wealth of new experience and received a lot of new and useful information. I will even be able to capitalize on these connections in the near future. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Ferenc Czipóth, Head of Finance and Process Management, for this interactive morning.” Gergő Orosz, Mohács Group 3
“Today, through the Practice Makes Perfect grant, we were able to participate at the BonOffice office, where we gained insight into the secrets of the finance department with the help of one of the finance managers. It was a very good professional experience, and it was well worth coming; we are grateful and thank you for allowing us to participate.” Kármen Petrovics, Szeged Group 3
“For me, today was very interesting, and I gained a lot of professional experience. We spent nearly four hours with the finance manager of BonOffice, after which we discussed in detail the revenues and expenses of the corporate group, as well as discussing at the beginning what kind of corporate groups exist. The grant was very useful for seeing into the daily life of a career in finance.” Lázár Fülöp, Pécs Group 3
Pick Szeged Zrt:
“Today (November 3) was very enjoyable. Together with my groupmates, we visited the Pick factory within the framework of the ‘Practice Makes Perfect!’ grant. The previous evening, we traveled to Szeged and stayed overnight at the Community House. In the morning, we went to the Pick plant to get to know the section responsible for IT and data collection. During the day, we were able to look around the factory grounds, which was very exciting for all of us. It was an unforgettable experience, and thank you very much for letting me participate in this grant.” Eszter Szabó-Körmendi, Pécs Group 3
“Today, within the framework of the Shadow Program, we visited the Pick plant in Szeged, belonging to the Bonafarm corporate group, during which we were first able to gain insight into the life of the procurement department. During the tour, we got a taste of the daily challenges faced by the department’s managers and employees, as well as the essence of the procurement profession. Following this, we were guided to the packaging and curing departments in the plant, because as one of the regional managers’ work philosophy states, the best managers are aware of the problems of the workers there, as they themselves once started their work at the ‘bottom of the ladder’. The visit highlighted that the combination of traditional procedures, 21st-century state-of-the-art technology, and a modern work mindset is essential for companies to adapt to the new, artificial world order.” – Márkó Felicián Laurinyecz, Szeged Group 3
Bonafarm IT Csoport:
“Today (November 2), within the framework of the ‘Practice Makes Perfect’ program, I had the opportunity to visit István Hagen, IT Security Manager, with whose help I was able to gain insight into the role of IT and IT security and their details. We started the day with a quick introduction, and then István began presenting the field of IT security with a very interesting PowerPoint presentation. Following the presentation of the basics, we discussed levels of cyber hygiene, knowledge of which is essential to properly position oneself in this job role. We also talked about risk and its analysis, which is equally important. Since information technology is constantly evolving and undergoing changes day by day, developing awareness and measurement tools are important, helping us to always stay up-to-date. Our final topic was artificial intelligence, its operation, advantages, and disadvantages, as well as the fact that despite all the positives it offers and the help we receive from it, it carries just as many disadvantages. We talked about its dangers and what solutions we can find so that it does not take full control over us. I particularly liked that I could learn from someone who possesses many years of experience and immense knowledge, allowing me to gain an even more authentic look into what it is like to work in this profession. I was surprised by how diverse this field is and how many directions one can pursue within IT security. Overall, I can look back on a very useful day filled with new knowledge, and the wealth of information I gained will certainly be beneficial to me in the future. I am grateful to the Csányi Foundation and the Bonafarm Group for making this visit possible for me, as well as to István for presenting the secrets of IT in such an interesting way.” Hanna Tóth, Pécs Group 3
Dairy Production:
“During the program, we visited the Sole-Mizo factory in Marcali. We were very curious about how the cottage cheese desserts sold in stores are made. During the visit, we were able to follow the key steps of production. First, we got to see how the cottage cheese mixture is prepared. They showed us how the raw materials needed for the product are mixed together. It is important for the mixture to have the right consistency, as this also determines the quality of the finished product. Next, we observed the shaping and cutting of the cottage cheese mixture. It was interesting to see how quickly and accurately the machines work. The shaped bars then moved further down the production line. As a next step, a white chocolate coating was applied to the bottom of the bars. Following this, they received the cocoa coating. It was fascinating to watch the products pass sequentially through the different work processes. After coating, the products underwent rapid cooling. This allowed the coating to solidify in a short period of time. Afterward, the finished cottage cheese desserts were moved to the packaging section. Here we were able to observe how the finished products are packaged individually. The packaging machines also worked quickly and accurately. It was interesting to see how many work processes are required to make a seemingly simple cottage cheese dessert. During the visit, we also heard about how they handle the leftovers generated during production. We learned that the cottage cheese material that is still of proper quality can also be reused in making other products, such as cocoa cottage cheese bars (kakaós túrórudi). This also allows them to reduce waste generated during production. In the second part of the program, we also gained insight into the world of marketing. The specialists told us about how they try to capture consumers’ attention. They also spoke specifically about how to engage young people. We learned that the appearance of the product and packaging play an important role in this. An interesting and eye-catching advertisement can also help a lot in promoting a product. Thus, during the factory visit, we gained new knowledge not only about the preparation of the products, but also about their sales. We were enriched with many interesting experiences and new information during the program. Overall, the factory visit in Marcali was an interesting, meaningful, and educational program for us.” Fruzsina Horváth, Leila Vanessza Orsós, Niké Váradi, Nagybajom Group 3
Game Management Sector:
On October 28, two members of Pécs Group 3 had an exciting professional experience when they visited Békáspuszta within the framework of the “Practice Makes Perfect” program. The youngsters were welcomed by Tímea Horváth, Zoltán János, Gábor Papp, Gergő Keszler, and Máté Szilárdi, who gave them a behind-the-scenes look into their work during the day. Through personal conversations and sharing experiences, the participants were able to get to know the various professional roles, their responsibilities, and the competencies required for successful work directly.
“Today, we had the opportunity to visit the hunting and forestry center in Békáspuszta, where we learned a lot of interesting things about hunting, forestry, and nature conservation. At the beginning of the program, we were introduced to hunting horns. They presented horns of various sizes, and then we listened to the horn signal used at the end of a hunt, as well as the melody sounded as a sign of respect when a red deer is taken. Next came the hunting dogs. We saw a dachshund and a German pointer, and we learned how dogs of different sizes work alongside hunters. The dogs demonstrated how disciplined they are, and we could also observe how the dachshund followed the scent trail of the red deer along a zigzagging route. Later, we also talked about game management. We discussed the area of approximately 40,000 hectares, the game population, and the responsibilities of foresters. We also learned that a professional may have to take care of maintaining an area of up to 4,000 hectares. In addition, we inspected several high seats and traps. It was a special experience when they also found a wildcat in one of the traps, which was then set free. For me, the most memorable part of the day was the car ride during which I traveled with forester-hunter Gábor Pap. As we drove around a smaller forested area, we talked a lot, and I learned things from him that made the world of nature and wild animals even more interesting to me. We talked about the wild animals living in Hungary, their habitats, and in which parts of the country we can encounter them. I learned, for example, that wolves also live in the northern regions of Hungary, mainly belonging to the North Hungarian Mountains. Bears may occasionally appear from neighboring countries near the border, as natural movements of wild animals are not restricted by national borders. Poaching was also discussed, which can pose a serious threat to the game population and the balance of nature. Gábor told us about the problems professionals might encounter and why it is important to properly protect wild animals. We also talked about how workers in the forest have to pay attention not only to observing animals, but also to habitat conservation, changes in the game population, and the impacts of human activity on nature. It was particularly interesting for me to learn how diverse Hungary’s wildlife is. We discussed the big game living in our forests, such as red deer, roe deer, and wild boars, as well as less frequently observed predators. I understood that the distribution of animals is greatly influenced by their habitat, the amount of food, and human activity. It was also an interesting thought that the condition of a forest and the behavior of the animals living there can reveal a lot about the health of nature. What made this ride truly special was not only the abundance of new information, but the atmosphere of the conversation itself. Gábor Pap answered all my questions willingly, and it was tangible that he was sharing stories drawn from his own experiences. We did not only talk about professional matters, but his life was also brought up, while he also showed interest in me. Thus, a truly direct, mutual conversation developed between us. As we proceeded alongside the forest, it felt good to listen to his stories, watch the landscape, and ask further questions. For me, this meant much more than a simple professional presentation: I felt that I could learn from the experiences of someone who truly knows this world well. As a result of the conversation, I became even more interested in nature, the life of wild animals, and the responsibility associated with maintaining forests. During the trip, I also met his beautiful pointer named Luna, with whom I became friends very quickly. Her friendly nature and the time spent with her made this experience even more personal. Overall, this visit meant much more to me than a simple program. I learned a lot about hunting, forestry, and respect for nature, but what made it truly special was the conversation with Gábor Pap. I am grateful for this experience, as I was enriched not only with new knowledge, but also with very positive feelings. I am sure I will remember this day for a long time.” Bálint Radics, Pécs Group 3
“Today we visited Békáspusztára, where we could participate in a truly event-filled and educational program. Upon our arrival, we were first welcomed with a horn demonstration, which created a special atmosphere. Following this, we watched a dog demonstration, which was also very interesting, as we could get to know the work of hunting dogs up close. After the demonstrations, we headed out into the field, where, with the help of our guide, I was enriched with a lot of new and useful knowledge. I would like to specially thank him for approaching us in such a kind, patient, and helpful manner. He tried to answer all our questions and clearly explained things that I hadn’t known much about before. Thanks to this, I not only had a good time, but also acquired a lot of new knowledge about forest wildlife and the important rules of hunting. During the field walk, I learned, for example, how to distinguish between the tracks of a wild boar and a roe deer. Both animals have cloven hooves, but the shape and size of their tracks differ. A wild boar’s track is generally wider, rounder, and often the tracks of the dewclaws behind it are also visible. In contrast, a roe deer’s track is mostly narrower, sharper, and crescent-shaped. Naturally, the size and shape of the tracks can also depend on the condition of the soil and the size of the animal. Furthermore, I also learned how important proper preparation and observing the environment are at a hunting seat. Special attention must be paid to wind direction, as game animals possess an extremely keen sense of smell. If the wind carries a person’s scent toward them, they can easily notice our presence and flee. Staying quiet is also very important, as game can hear even the smallest noise. If we disturb them, they may not return to the same place. Even if they do come back, it might only happen later or from a different direction. From this, I learned that game observation requires patience, attention, and caution. Another interesting piece of information I heard during the day is related to the behavior of wild boars and roe deer. I learned that they often avoid each other and try to keep their distance. However, if they do meet, roe deer may utter a characteristic alarm call, warning their surroundings of potential danger or scaring off the approaching animal. It was particularly interesting to me that hearing such a sound in the forest can also indicate that the roe deer has detected a human, a wild boar, or another animal it perceives as dangerous. This made me realize that sounds also play an important role in the forest and can reveal a lot about the behavior of the animals living there. Overall, I found this visit very useful and interesting. I learned many things I didn’t know before, and I understood even better how important it is to respect the forest, nature, and wildlife. I believe that programs like this not only provide knowledge, but also help us pay better attention to the nature around us. At the end of the article, I would like to thank the Csányi Foundation and the Bonafarm Group for making this meaningful and memorable day possible for us. Special thanks to our guide for his kindness, patience, and the wealth of interesting information he shared with us.” Raul Tamás Kuti, Pécs Group 3
