International students share their impressions of living in Moscow and studying at HSE (original) (raw)

1. What was your main reason for choosing to study at HSE?

The main reason I chose HSE over other universities in Russia was due to the prestige of the university and the positive comments from friends I met in Moscow, as well as from important authorities at my embassy.

2. How did your education at HSE help you in your career development?

The education at HSE University were beneficial because they gave me a deeper understanding of global markets and the exposure to international perspectives in business management. Also, practical case studies and working with big companies on research helped me improve my critical thinking and adaptability. Finally, working with people from different cultural and professional backgrounds strengthen my communication skills.

3. What was the most memorable academic experience you had during your time at HSE?

The most important academic experience I had was when my team and I had the opportunity to develop a consulting project for a major Russian company in the oil and gas extraction industry. We were able to apply the knowledge we had acquired and put it into practice. Considering my background, it was fascinating to apply my experience, collaborate with people from different countries, and gain new perspectives.

4. How did extracurricular activities at HSE contribute to your personal or professional growth?

I am part of the Latin American Student Club at HSE, which helped me build a strong community and share experiences. It also allowed me to keep a sense of connection to my roots and share my culture with both Russian and international students. This experience enriched my personal growth by fostering a sense of belonging, while professionally, it helped me develop my communication skills and build a diverse network.

5. Did you participate in internships or work-study programs during your time at HSE? If yes, how did these experiences help you?

Yes, as part of the curriculum for the master’s in International Management, we were required to complete internships with a company. In my case, I had the opportunity to do a consulting internship at LOGA GROUP, a venture builder. I worked specifically with one of their projects, VOLTS, which focuses on providing carbon-neutral energy supply solutions for both low-power and industrial projects. This experience was important since it allowed me to apply my knowledge, gain insights into sustainable energy solutions, and enhance my consulting skills.

6. What challenges did you face during your studies at HSE, and how did you overcome them?

The most significant challenge I faced was the language barrier. My master’s program was in English, however, many of my classmates were Russian speakers. Therefore, even though I didn’t fully master the language, I made the decision to learn it in order to better understand my classmates and colleagues. This also helped me in the workplace, as I had the opportunity to work with the staff in the HSE International Admissions Office for almost half a year. Learning the language not only improved my communication skills but also allowed me to integrate more effectively into both academic and professional settings.

7. How did HSE prepare you for the job market or further academic pursuits?

In my country, having a master's degree from a prestigious global university is crucial for securing a good job. HSE University has helped me take my career in a different direction. My professional life had always been focused on the banking industry, but now, thanks to my experience at HSE, I have the opportunity to work in different sectors such as education and real estate. The university provided me with a broader skill set and exposure to various industries, allowing me to diversify my career options and adapt to new challenges. The international perspective I gained at HSE has been particularly valuable in preparing me for a global job market.

8. Would you recommend HSE to future students? Why or why not?

Yes, I would definitely recommend HSE to future students. Beyond the high academic standards, HSE offers invaluable professional experiences, cultural opportunities, new friends, and networking connections. The university has strong ties with many companies and organizations, providing unique internship and employment opportunities that help students apply their knowledge. The diverse international student body enriches interactions and fosters a global perspective, while the faculty consists of experts with international experience, ensuring a high-quality education. Additionally, HSE offers many extracurricular activities and student clubs that promote engagement and skill development. Located in Moscow, one of the best cities I’ve ever been, HSE provides an exciting urban environment that complements the academic experience.

9. What are your current career goals or plans?

Currently, I am working on a joint project with HSE to attract students from Latin America, where I can share my experiences of studying in Russia and at the university. At the same time, I am employed at a major company in the real estate and civil construction sector. On a personal level, I aspire to apply to the diplomatic academy with the goal of becoming an ambassador for my country. I want to represent my nation and share my identity and culture with the world.