Student Spotlight: Talitha Savina, Indonesia

Welcome, Talitha! Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello! My name is Talitha Ananda Savina and I was an exchange student at ITMO in the fall semester of 2024. I have a deep passion for learning – especially about the world, nature, and different cultures. I love exploring new things and my time at ITMO gave me the perfect opportunity to do just that. Thank you for having me!

What are you currently studying?

Right now I’m in the final year of my Bachelor’s degree in geology at the University of Indonesia. My studies revolve around the earth – rocks, minerals, natural processes, resources, and even natural hazards. During my exchange, I studied at ITMO’s Faculty of Ecotechnologies, which complemented my background perfectly.

What sparked your interest in ecotechnologies?

I’ve always been fascinated by how Earth’s systems work and how industries like mining affect the planet. I wanted to explore ways to make resource extraction more sustainable while minimizing environmental damage.

In the future, I hope to become an environmental specialist, focusing on sustainable mining practices and innovative solutions to reduce ecological impact. I believe technology can help industries operate responsibly and ensure the long-term sustainability of our natural resources.

What led you to choose a semester exchange in Russia?

Honestly, it’s been a childhood dream of mine to study in a country with a winter season. Growing up in Indonesia, where we only have wet and dry seasons, I’ve always been fascinated with snow. I wanted to know what it’s like to live in a place where winter is a significant part of life. Experiencing it firsthand in Russia was a dream come true.

How did you discover ITMO and what made you choose it?

I first learned about ITMO through its exchange program courses. As I researched more, I was drawn to its reputation – and the courses offered at ITMO aligned with my academic background, which made it a perfect choice. But beyond academics, I was also excited about experiencing Russian culture, learning a new language, and of course, finally seeing some snow! ITMO’s international environment and welcoming community sealed the deal for me.

What were your expectations before coming to Russia? Did they match reality?

Before arriving, I was filled with excitement. I imagined Russia as a country with stunning architecture, rich culture, and lots of snow – and reality exceeded my expectations!

Academically, I expected the coursework to be difficult, especially since I was assigned to Master’s courses due to my faculty only offering programs in English at that level. However, ITMO’s well-structured system and incredibly supportive lecturers made it manageable. Socially, I was initially worried about the language barrier since not many Russians speak English. But I found the international atmosphere to be very welcoming. I made great friends from Russia and all over the world. Over time, I learned how to navigate conversations using basic Russian, gestures, and the kindness of locals who were always willing to help.

How does ITMO’s learning environment compare to your home university?

ITMO’s approach felt quite different. One big difference was the flexibility in learning. ITMO encourages self-directed study, allowing students to explore beyond the core curriculum. Professors were approachable and encouraged open discussions, which made classes feel more dynamic and interactive. At my home university, the academic system is more strict with a stronger focus on traditional coursework and exams. While that builds a strong theoretical foundation, I really appreciated ITMO’s research-oriented, hands-on approach. It pushed me to develop not just technical knowledge, but also creativity and problem-solving skills.

Did you work on any research projects during your exchange?

Yes! For my final project in the Best Available Techniques (BAT) course, I worked on reducing the environmental and operational impact of oil leaks in submarine oil pipelines. It’s a critical issue for marine ecosystems. I proposed implementing real-time leak detection systems – advanced monitoring technologies that can instantly detect leaks, send alerts, and enable rapid containment before irreversible damage occurs. This project reinforced my belief that technology can be a powerful tool in minimizing environmental harm while maintaining industrial efficiency.

How did you adapt to daily life in St. Petersburg? Were there any challenges?

Adapting went smoothly for the most part! When autumn transitioned into winter, I got sick for three days – probably from the sudden temperature drop, but after that, I adjusted and started enjoying the cold.

Finding food and necessities was easy thanks to the Indonesian student community in St. Petersburg, who shared useful tips before I arrived. One funny challenge was keeping up with the locals’ fast walking pace! Also, in Russia, people tend to have a more serious expression in public, while I naturally smile a lot. It took me a while to get used to that.

What’s your favorite memory from Russia?

Everything! From the moment I arrived, I knew my time here would be special. Experiencing my first snowfall, exploring St. Petersburg, making friends from different cultures, and trying new foods – each moment felt surreal. One of my most unforgettable experiences was my trip to Yagodnoe. The breathtaking scenery, fun activities, and the warmth of the people made it a highlight of my exchange.

You also traveled to other Russian cities. Which one stood out the most?

Murmansk, without a doubt! I got to see the Northern Lights – one of the most magical moments of my life. Aside from that, I visited a husky and reindeer park, Teriberka (the "Edge of the Earth"), Dragon Eggs Beach, and a ship graveyard. It was an adventure I’ll never forget.

What are the biggest lessons you took from this experience?

One of the biggest lessons I learned is that at the end of the day, you have to rely on yourself. Being in a foreign country taught me independence, decision-making, and problem-solving in real time. I also learned the importance of adaptability. Things don’t always go as planned and being flexible is crucial. Most importantly, I realized that growth comes from challenges. Every struggle – whether it was dealing with the language barrier, handling situations alone, or adjusting to a different culture – helped me become a stronger, more confident person.

What advice would you give to future exchange students at ITMO?

Just go for it! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will change you in ways you never expected. Be open to new experiences, embrace the challenges, and make the most of your time at ITMO. You won’t regret it!