Alumnus Spotlight: Li Ziming, China

Please introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Li Ziming, and I come from China. I completed my Master’s program in web technologies at ITMO and graduated with a red diploma in 2024.

Take us back to your time at ITMO. What first led you to study web technologies?

In areas like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), data monitoring, and enterprise digitalization, web platforms play a key role in connecting technology with real-world applications. I wanted to study practical technologies that could be directly applied to industry, and ITMO’s program gave me a strong training in software development, system design, and real engineering practice.

What were your expectations before arriving in St. Petersburg, and how did reality compare?

Before coming to St. Petersburg as a student, I had visited the city years earlier as a tourist. My first impression was that it was a very beautiful and classical city with a unique atmosphere. After living here for several years, I found that it is also a great place for studying, personal growth, and meeting people from different backgrounds.

Were there any courses, professors, or projects at ITMO that had a lasting impact on you?

Yes, especially my supervisor Irina Gotskaya, who provided important guidance during my studies. I also appreciated Ilya Gosudarev, our program manager, whose support and organization helped students adapt and succeed in the program.

What was the most challenging part of your program, and how did you overcome it?

One of the most challenging parts was adapting to the Russian language. However, as I studied more deeply, I gradually realized that it is a language with clear patterns and logic. 

Can you tell us about a project you worked on at ITMO that you’re especially proud of?

I am especially proud of my graduation project on industrial information systems, where I applied web technologies to real production environments. This experience was very valuable for my later PhD applications and job interviews.

Looking back, what do you think ITMO prepared you for the most?

Technology develops very quickly, and ITMO taught me to learn independently, solve unfamiliar problems, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing professional environment.

How would you describe the learning environment at ITMO?

It was very modern and student-friendly. The professors were friendly and knowledgeable, and the staff – responsible, helpful, and professional. The university’s digital systems saved a lot of time when handling academic and administrative tasks, which was very helpful for international students.

Outside of academics, what were some of your favorite experiences in St. Petersburg?

I really enjoyed exploring the city’s palaces, churches, museums, and theaters. I also loved taking suburban trains on weekends to visit nearby parks, lakes, and small towns.

What were some of the most memorable experiences during your time at ITMO?

It was definitely the graduation ceremony. In 2024, the graduation was held on Yelagin Island, which made the moment feel especially unique and unforgettable.

Did you build any connections or communities at ITMO that still matter to you today?

I still keep in touch with many of my classmates through group chats, where we share job opportunities, project ideas, and professional advice.

What advice would you give to students who are considering studying web technologies at ITMO?

Even though AI tools have become increasingly common in recent years, developers still need strong foundational knowledge in programming, system design, and problem-solving. My advice is to focus on building solid technical skills, stay curious, and actively participate in practical projects. ITMO provides a strong environment for this, but your growth will depend on how much effort you invest in learning and adapting.

In one sentence: what did your time at ITMO mean to you?

My time at ITMO gave me not only knowledge and skills but also confidence in my next steps.