Student Spotlight: Zhao Jiaqi, China

Please introduce yourself to our readers. 

Hello everyone, my name is Zhao Jiaqi. I am an international student from China, who has recently finished a year-long Foundation Program at ITMO. At present, I am preparing to start my Master’s degree studies.

Please tell us something about your hometown.

My hometown is Changchun, the capital of Jilin province, located in the north of China. My city is the first city in the country to produce cars. It is known as the city of automobiles, thanks to its car industry. Changchun has cold winters and warm summers. The city has many beautiful parks, like the South Lake Park, where people enjoy walking and boating. Changchun is also famous for its history in film and has a large film studio called the Changchun Film Studio. The food in Changchun includes tasty dishes like dumplings and hotpots. The people in Changchun are friendly and hardworking. It is a wonderful place to explore and learn about China's history and industrial revolution.

What was it like growing up in Changchun?

My childhood was very happy. In my memory, my childhood was surrounded by a quiet and peaceful environment. In my childhood, there were not so many cars and high-rise buildings in the city. But people's happiness index was very high. Everyone in my hometown starts to work at sunrise and goes home to rest at sunset.

Where did you study before joining ITMO?

I studied in China for three years before joining the Baltic State Technical University in St. Petersburg for a year. After finishing my Bachelor’s studies, I joined ITMO to pursue a Master’s in automation and control.

And why did you transfer to Russia?

The first reason is that my university in China had established cooperation with many Russian schools. So, I thought that this was a good opportunity to increase my horizons by studying in Russia. Secondly, I like Russia very much, too. I like the climate here and also the people of this country.

So was ITMO recommended by your university as well?

I applied for government scholarships in China and Russia. I learned about ITMO on their website. I also found out more information about ITMO through my university teachers and seniors. What I love the most about ITMO is that it is a university with a very high academic performance, the teachers are very responsible, and the learning atmosphere is quite favorable.

What motivated you to study automation and control?

I entered the field out of love and curiosity about machinery, control, and design. These topics make me want to study further and further – until I become a master of them!

Well, that’s wonderful. How has your life been in Russia so far?

I think my life in Russia was a challenge in the beginning. Gradually, I became familiar with this life and the environment here. I learned that St. Petersburg is a city with a very deep history and culture, which made me feel proud of the city where I am living. I gradually made friends who made me more comfortable. They were very enthusiastic to tell me more about the history of the buildings here and the food culture.

What is your favorite place in St. Petersburg?

I like going to the Hermitage the most. There are many famous paintings stored there. It allows me to understand Russian history and culture more intuitively. I like listening to historical stories very much. It's worth going there many times – visiting and admiring the beautiful exhibits on display repeatedly!

That’s so nice! And where are you staying in St. Petersburg?

I currently live in dormitory No. 6, located on Belorusskaya St. 6. 

Have you faced any challenges during your time in Russia?

I did! I encountered a lot of challenges when I came here. When I first arrived in Russia, learning a new language became a big challenge for me. But if I am to live here, I have to learn how to communicate in Russian, which would then allow me to live independently. I learned how to cook by myself, go to the hospital and other different places by myself – and in the process, I slowly grew up.

Awesome! Do you have any hobbies?

I like to play badminton. It allows me to relax a little bit in my free time when I am not busy with my studies.

Have you been to other cities in Russia?

I have been to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Contrary to many people’s opinions, I like Moscow's subways very much. They are connected one by one in a ring and can reach any place in the city pretty quickly.

Quite interesting! What’s your Russian dish?

Maybe I haven't eaten Russian food enough to answer this question properly. But at present, my favorite is borscht. Besides being a very famous dish, it also meets my preferences for food.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I will try to become a university teacher. In my opinion, this is a very good profession and is well respected around the world.

Wow, good luck with your future endeavors. 

Thank you so much for your kind wishes!

Do you have any advice for future ITMO students?

You will have unlimited possibilities at ITMO. This school has a wealth of educational resources, a variety of clubs, and lots of experienced people who are ready to support students with their projects. Remember to learn Russian well along with the basics of various professional courses. And finally, maintain a good attitude and actively face every challenge that comes your way every day. All ITMO students will have a good future!