The origins of Tatiana’s Day, or Student Day as it’s also called, go back to 1755, when the first Russian university was established on the feast day of Saint Tatiana, the patron saint of students. Historically, it has always been a day for lively celebration and revelry among the nation’s current and former students. Though largely forgotten during the Soviet era, it has once again become popular in recent times; today, it’s marked by countless concerts, parties, and student reunions.
Every year, numerous students from all around the globe travel to Russia to continue their higher education. Russian universities, popular for their high academic standards, offer diverse programs and welcome such students with open arms, making genuine efforts to help them feel at home (like ITMO’s Buddy System). Let’s find out what our international students have to say about their impressions of studying at ITMO.
Mahmoud Hikal, Egypt
Mahmoud, an Egyptian student pursuing a Master's degree in robotics and AI at ITMO, points to the rejuvenating effect of returning to student life:
"It feels refreshing, but without ITMO’s support, it wouldn’t have been the same. I feel ITMO is like my family, my home. Everyone at ITMO is so professional. They don’t treat me like a student but like their own family member. The teachers here are amazing. My respect for Russia has increased a lot thanks to ITMO," he shares.
Zoalfkar-Ali Deeb, Syria
Zoalfkar-Ali Deeb. Photo courtesy of the subject
Zoalfkar, a student from Syria pursuing a Master's degree in big data and machine learning, reflects on the timeless nature of student life:
"I can say students were the same when I left the dormitory 10 years ago. We had the same mindset, the same social media, the same lifestyle. I think nothing has changed. For me, it's not new at all," Zoalfkar-Ali observes.
Ngo-Dang Hien, Vietnam
Ngo-Dang Hien. Photo courtesy of the subject
Ngo-Dang Hien, a Vietnamese student pursuing a PhD in robotics, shares the challenges he faced when he first embarked on his academic journey in a foreign country:
"As an older student with a family and young children, when I went to Russia to study, everything was too strange for me and it was very difficult. Living far away from home sometimes made me very stressed. However, now things are better as I'm getting used to life here. I feel very lucky to be able to study here. ITMO is my dream university; I love it and the people of Russia," Hien shares.
Md. Imran Hossain, Bangladesh
Md. Imran Hossain. Photo courtesy of the subject
Md. Imran Hossain from Bangladesh chose a different path in his academic journey, transitioning from textile engineering to mathematical and computer modeling for his Master's degree.
"After working at a textile engineering corporation, I wanted something new, something fresh. Mathematical and computer modeling is an integral part of any engineering project. So, I wanted to specialize in it. Russia is well-known for its technological advances and educational prowess. So, I believe, by studying at ITMO, I will be able to enhance my skills more and unlock new opportunities," Md. Imran explains.
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As we celebrate Tatiana's Day and the vibrant student culture of Russia, the stories of these and other students shine a light on the varied experiences of older international students returning to academic life. Their perspectives touch upon the importance of a supportive academic community, the timeless nature of the student experience, the unique challenges faced by international students, and the transformative power of education in unlocking new opportunities.
As these students embrace their new academic journey, their stories contribute to the rich tapestry of international student life, highlighting the global connections formed within the walls of ITMO University.
To learn more about this holiday, read our summary of its history here. Browse the International Students tag for more news and testimonials from ITMO's international student body.
