Ever since I became a student at ITMO University, I had been waiting eagerly to visit Yagodnoe, the university's fabled sports and recreation camp. I had enrolled twice before but canceled at the eleventh hour due to a time limitation. This summer, though, I was not going to let the chance pass me by.

I was on holiday in Bangladesh when the ITMO’s Buddy System posted the registration form for the next Yagodnoe trip on June 22. I registered right away and completed all the procedures, including payment, while I was still overseas.

I returned to Russia on June 20, first to Moscow and then, 10 hours later, to St. Petersburg. On June 22, at 8 am on the dot, I met the other participants of the trip and took the bus ride to Yagodnoe.

The first day — a warm welcome

The camp was to last two days and a night, plenty of fun and leisure planned. Upon arrival, our guide briefed us on the camp rules and activities. We were then assigned our rooms.

My Afghan roommate was a very friendly and nice guy. We hit it off right away. After we had checked in our bags to our rooms, I went around the camp taking photos and enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Next, we took part in a series of team-building games and exercises. I belonged to Team 4, which had seven members:

• Myself
• A Pakistani student
• Two Vietnamese students
• A Russian student
• A staff member of ITMO University’s International Office, who joined as our team leader.

We had a great time engaging in different activities, and our group proudly took the third place in the overall championship. Everyone was awarded with ITMO souvenirs, a little but priceless gift of gratitude.

Kayaking, steam bath & new friendships

The best part of the afternoon was boating and kayaking on Lake Berestovoye. It was my first experience rowing a boat, and while it required some effort to become accustomed to it, it was an experience that I shall not forget.

Following the water sports, we all had lunch together. All the food was shared among us, and it created a cozy, picnic-like atmosphere.

In the afternoon, I also tried Russian steam bath (banya) for the first time. It was just amazing — inducing relaxation and full of vitality. After the steaming, we jumped into the lake to cool off with a splashing swim.

As evening came, we were getting ready for a BBQ night. This was another chance to meet new people and socialize. I got to know some students from Morocco, India, and Vietnam, and all of them were very friendly. We had BBQ dinner with new friends, engaged in some games like Truth or Dare, and I even attempted to show them a card game (though I did not explain it well enough, to the amusement of everyone).

The second day — sports & farewell

We went to our rooms after the long, thrilling day, slept soundly, and the next morning breakfasted together and played basketball, football, and volleyball for two hours. The sporty environment of the camp kept everyone energized and united.

By noon, the bus had arrived, and it was time to head back to the city. Though only a two-day camp, I felt as if I'd been on a much longer journey — one of adventure, camaraderie, and discovery.

Reflections

Attending Yagodnoe Camp was the most rejuvenating experience I've had during my time as an ITMO student. The camp is not merely a leisurely hub — it's a melting pot of cultures where international students meet, cooperate, and exchange experiences beyond the classroom.

For me, it wasn't all about the kayaking, sports, and BBQs — it was about making friends. Spending time with students from everywhere reconnected me to why I came to study in such a multicultural environment.

Yagodnoe offers the perfect escape from city life, combining nature, sports, and fun into one beautiful package. Whether you’re a student who loves adventure or someone who just wants a peaceful retreat, this camp is a must-visit.