Why did you decide to study molecular biology and biotechnology?
During my undergraduate studies in biotechnology, I developed a huge interest in genetic engineering. After my graduation, I took a break from studying for two years to gain some work experience and it was then that I realized I need to expand my knowledge further in order to continue doing cutting-edge research. I understood that the project ideas that I have can only be realized with higher education. My longing to explore European cities and their culture added fuel to my desire of studying abroad.
How did you learn about ITMO?
I googled various universities that provide courses in English in my subject of choice. I was also actively looking for scholarship opportunities. I came across the Open Doors scholarship online and decided to go for it. After several months of disciplined hustle, my hard work finally paid off as I won a 100% scholarship to pursue my Master’s degree in Russia. I chose ITMO over other universities because of its amazing infrastructure, welcoming and cheerful atmosphere and high research output. I also found that ITMO’s SCAMT institute provides the best experience of research and innovation in biology and chemistry. I must mention the immense support that I received from the university’s International Office. They were very helpful and always ready to clarify any query that I had. I cannot thank them enough. In addition, the beautiful city of St. Petersburg enchanted me with its grandeur, making my decision even firmer.
What was it like to study remotely for the entirety of the first year?
Distant learning was definitely a very new experience for me. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing pandemic, international travelling completely stalled. However, thanks to the incredible technological support of ITMO, I never missed a single lecture. Every classroom was equipped with video conferencing technology because of which we could have our online classes smoothly. Not only did I get to attend my regular classes, but also several guest lectures and international conferences. At first, I was very happy to be able to enjoy my lessons from the comfort of my home but after a few months, I really missed working at the laboratory. It has been a long time since I genetically engineered a plasmid or visualized a microbe under the microscope. I really hope the world gets well soon and I am able to go back to my endroit favori, in the near future.
Susan hopes to be here at ITMO soon and start working on his research projects. Photo courtesy of the subject
What are your expectations regarding St. Petersburg?
I have heard that St. Petersburg is the most European city in Russia and since I always wanted to explore European culture, I am naturally very excited. During my stay, I want to visit each and every architectural marvel that the city embraces like The Hermitage and The Peter and Paul Fortress, to name a few. Of course, I know that St. Petersburg is a very cold city and I am not really sure that I am prepared for it. But I have read an article on ITMO.NEWS that nicely explains the winter experience of some international students. I would prepare myself according to the advice they have given. Finally, Russian food is something that I am really looking forward to tasting. I hope I will really be amazed.
What are your future goals and ambitions?
Genetic engineering is my main focus and I want to utilize the various novel and efficient genetic engineering tools like CRISPR-Cas to improve the yield of crops like rice, wheat, and maize. The world’s population is growing at an exponential rate but agriculture is unable to keep up with that number owing to low crop yield and several plant diseases. My dream is to implement genetic engineering and bioinformatics to find solutions to these problems. I also want to focus my work on sustainability as that is a major concern in today’s world. I want to conduct research on the production of biofuel from plants and microbes, harnessing the largely unexplored potential of biotechnology. Let us make the world a better place to live in, not only for us, but also for future generations.
Any message that you would like to share with aspiring students?
Believe in yourself and go for it. The path may be winding, but the summit is sweet! Definitely consider applying to ITMO. Always feel free to reach out to me or my colleagues for any help or support. It is always a good idea to take some help from seniors who are already studying here.
Check out our other interviews with international students at ITMO.
Written by
Subhrajit Barua
