Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, my full name is Pham Dang Trung Nghia but people often call me just Nghia. I am 20 years old and I am from Vietnam. And you know what, Trung Nghia in Vietnamese means loyalty to the country and family.
Tell us something about your hometown.
Vietnam is a beautiful country. I was born and raised in a small city not far from the capital, Hanoi. The name of my hometown is Hoa Binh. The city is divided into two halves by the large Da River.
What are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam?
You should surely visit popular places such as Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. In Vietnam, we have many scenic spots recognized by UNESCO. And of course, you must come to my hometown Hoa Binh to admire a famous architectural project: the Hoa Binh hydroelectric plant, built and designed with the help of Soviet engineers. This was the largest hydroelectric plant in Vietnam and Southeast Asia from 1994 to 2012.
What is the main festival of Vietnam?
Tết is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, and it is usually celebrated between late January and early February, depending on the phases of the moon. Tết is the most significant traditional festival in Vietnam and is a time for families to come together, pay respects to ancestors, and welcome the new year with various customs and rituals.
What is your favorite Vietnamese dish?
I have quite a few favorite dishes. Vermicelli with tofu and shrimp paste, pho, spring rolls, and bun cha. You should try them all too.
“Showing respect to my country and my people is the most important lesson that I have learned from my parents,” says Nghia. Photo courtesy of the subject
What motivated you to come to Russia?
I was looking for study abroad options when I learned about Russia. I was really fascinated with everything, especially with Russia's educational programs. Their strengths in the IT field are unparalleled.
What are you studying at ITMO?
Currently, I am a first-year Bachelor’s student in software engineering.
What made you interested in IT?
Considered a pillar of the digital economy, IT plays an important role in driving technological advancement and the way we work, communicate, and solve problems. The IT industry also offers many career opportunities and makes an important contribution to the development and digital transformation of society and businesses.
How much Russian do you know already?
I think it's enough for communication. Currently, my Russian level is B1 (intermediate).
What are your hobbies?
My hobby is bodybuilding. It helps me relieve the pressure from studies as well as daily life. This also helps me build a good health foundation.
What do you like the most about St. Petersburg?
What I like most is the weather and scenery. The weather is very pleasant here, especially in summer, and the scenery is absolutely stunning.
Do you like Russian cuisine?
Russian cuisine is really interesting. I have tried certain flavors that only Russian food can bring. In particular, Russians make very delicious bread that is diverse and rich in shape and flavor.
Nghia loves exploring new places. Photo courtesy of the subject
What are your plans for the future?
Once I graduate from ITMO, I will find a job of my choice in Vietnam. I will continue to pursue my passion in my country.
Let’s end today’s chat with a few rapid fire questions:
-
Moscow or St. Petersburg?
I love living in St. Petersburg, because in my opinion, prices are cheaper here and the lifestyle is also slower, more relaxing than in Moscow.
-
What is your favorite season in Russia?
Of course, summer. Summer in Russia is really cool and pleasant. That's also the season when I have a lot of time to travel and explore.
-
Any place in Russia that you really want to visit?
I want to go to Murmansk. It is my dream to see the aurora borealis!
-
Which app do you use the most in Russia?
I often use Yandex Maps, because I am still new to the city and prone to losing my way!
