Please introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Wu Yupeng. I come from a small city in northern China called Fenyang in the Shanxi province. My hometown is small, but rich in a type of wine called Fenjiu. Fenjiu was China's national wine in the 1990s, similar to Russian vodka.
What was your childhood there like?
When I was a child, I was very interested in martial arts and table tennis. I wanted to become a sportsman when I grew up!
Where did you study before joining ITMO?
I completed my Bachelor’s degree in computer science and technology at a university in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. I came to Russia after graduation.
And why did you decide to study in Russia?
Russia is a good friend of China and I predict that Russia will play a key role in Sino-Russian trade.
How did you discover ITMO?
My university (Hangzhou Dianzi University – Ed.) cooperates with ITMO University. Hence, I learned about ITMO from my teachers and friends. I also did my own research and discovered that ITMO is excellent in computer science and programming.
What are you studying at ITMO?
My program at ITMO is a Master’s in information security; I won the Portfolio Contest and got admitted to ITMO exam-free!
What motivated you to study this subject?
To me, information security is very important not just in the present but also in the future. Without information security, there will be no national security. Thus, I wanted to get trained in this technology and serve my country by improving its IT security standards.
How would you describe your life in Russia?
Life in Russia is very interesting. I like to walk in the parks with my friends. Russian parks are very beautiful and interesting. St. Petersburg is a beautiful city and I am very happy here.
How do you manage your finances?
My parents send me money every month. I spend my money where necessary and save the rest. That’s how I manage my finances.
Are you living in a dormitory or an apartment?
I live in the dormitory on Vyazemsky Lane 5-7. It is close to the university, the cost is cheap, and I can make a lot of foreign friends here.
Have you faced any challenges since you came here?
I haven't encountered any challenges for the time being. I think my only challenge is to graduate from ITMO with excellent grades.
What are your hobbies?
I like to practice Chinese martial arts, such as yongchun and swordsmanship. I also like playing table tennis. I also have a special hobby – turning a pen. You can visualize it as juggling a pen between fingers.
Have you been to other Russian cities?
After graduating from the Foundation Program, our teacher took us to Pushkin, where the park was very beautiful. I liked this trip very much.
Do you like Russian food?
Yes, I do like Russian food. It's delicious! Блины is my favorite dish.
What are your plans after graduation?
I hope I can work in Russia and have the opportunity to settle here forever. Still early days, but I am optimistic.
Do you have any advice for future students at ITMO?
I have friends in China who want to study in Russia. I highly recommend ITMO to them. This university has a very high status in Russia and skilled lecturers. Choosing ITMO is indeed a very wise decision!
