Hello Muslimbek, please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hi! I am a first-year Master’s student in big data and machine learning from Uzbekistan, a Central Asian country with a rich history.
Tell us something about your hometown.
I was born in a small but utterly beautiful Uzbek city called Namangan. However, after a few years, when I was 13, I moved to Tashkent, the capital city. I invite you all to my hometown and my country. I am sure it will be a great experience for you.
How would you describe the Uzbek people?
They are adorable and friendly. Most Uzbek people are extroverts and they like meeting new people. If you go to Uzbekistan, you will never be homeless. People will always invite you into their homes and offer help.
What is the family structure like in Uzbekistan?
Families used to be very large in the past. For example, my father has 6 siblings! However, nowadays, families are becoming smaller. I have 2 siblings – one older and one younger.
What major festivals do people celebrate in Uzbekistan?
My hometown is famous for the flower festival that happens every year from May 23 to May 31. Traditionally, the festival opens with a large-scale parade of cars decorated with various floral arrangements by local master florists. Another popular festival in Uzbekistan is Nowruz, which is usually celebrated in March. We also celebrate our Independence Day with a lot of enthusiasm and fun. There are also a few religious festivals that are celebrated in Uzbekistan.
How long have you been in Russia?
I got my Bachelor’s from the Northern (Arctic) Federal University in Arkhangelsk. And now I am at ITMO. So, I have been in Russia for more than 4 years now.
How did you find out about ITMO?
I had several universities to choose from, but when I got a call from the representatives of ITMO, I was sure that ITMO was my destination. It is one of the best universities in the world in computer science and I am privileged to be a student here.
“ITMO is well-known for training some of the world’s best IT professionals and that fascinated me,” says Muslimbek. Photo courtesy of the subject
What inspired you to study machine learning?
I did my Bachelor’s in a different subject, but during those 4 years, I had the opportunity to attend many conferences and workshops where I learned about machine learning and big data and the impact that they are having on the world right now. I also worked on a few projects and read some research papers. That motivated me to pursue this field and gain more expertise.
What are your thoughts about the classes at ITMO?
Courses at ITMO are unique. Here, you have the opportunity to choose what subjects you want to learn. They provide students with lots of opportunities for hands-on work and training. We get to work and develop algorithms and software that make us ready to tackle real-world challenges. Also, the online courses on openedu help us gain extra knowledge and skills. We also get to solve tasks and polish our problem-solving acumen.
And what about St. Petersburg?
I had been to St. Petersburg a few times before during my Bachelor’s to attend conferences and I fell in love with the city right away. St. Petersburg is the cultural capital of Russia. It is filled with brilliant architecture and scenic beauty. The people here are also very friendly and kind-hearted. Besides ITMO, the city also played a big part while selecting my destination for Master’s.
Where do you live?
I’m living at one of ITMO’s dorms located on Alpiysky Lane 15. It is far from the city center but very cozy. The building is clean and equipped with all modern amenities. My roommates are also very friendly. I really like the fact that it has a gym where I can work out every day.
Is Russian food similar to Uzbek cuisine?
It is an interesting question. While the food is not really similar, you can find a lot of canteens and restaurants run by the people of my country. Uzbek food is very popular here and easily available. I also really like Russian dishes like borscht.
What are your hobbies?
I really like learning about new cultures. Right now, I am enrolled in a Spanish course where I am learning many interesting facts about Spain and the Spanish people. I also enjoy playing musical instruments like guitar and piano. Playing chess is also a hobby of mine. I’m in the chess club at ITMO and we often participate in various chess tournaments. I also like traveling a lot.
What other clubs are you a part of?
I am a member of the ITMO Buddy System. I really like being a part of this club because I get to interact with many international students. Also, I get to travel. Recently, we went to Yagodnoe. It was so much fun!
Muslimbek at a chess tournament. Photo courtesy of the subject
You are a very active person!
Yes, I like to keep myself busy socially. I like trying new things and meeting new people. It helps me broaden my knowledge. Having many friends is a blessing because I get to learn different perspectives on life.
What are your future plans?
First, I would like to complete my Master’s with good grades and then gain some working experience. Later in life, I wish to enter the startup arena. I want to have my own venture.
Any advice for future students?
I would recommend everyone to choose ITMO because it is one of the best places to be. You won’t regret your decision. Also, I would urge newcomers to be active in their social lives while still focusing on studies and working hard.
