Student Spotlight: Martin Rojas, Peru

Please tell us something about yourself.

I am Martin Rojas from Peru. Many people ask me why I am in Russia and I always answer, “Why not?” It's a very long story about how I came here, but it was my desire to just try new things that was the driving force. One thing led to another. As a result, I became interested in the Russian language. I love learning different languages. So, I had a very good opportunity to start my career here. And now I'm doing my PhD in St. Petersburg. Isn’t that very cool? 

Were you a Master’s student at ITMO previously? 

No, I did my Master’s at a university in Samara (a city in southwestern Russia – Ed.). It was a wonderful experience. After that, I thought that I would not be able to continue my PhD because I returned to Peru right before the pandemic. After a year or so, I got the opportunity to continue my studies here in St. Petersburg, at ITMO. 

What was your Master’s major?

I studied mathematics and physics, but my major was photonics. 

When did you start looking for PhD programs? 

Because of the pandemic, I was in limbo, doing nothing. I tried to find training programs in Europe, especially in France and Germany. But it was difficult for me to get there. At the same time, I was sending documents to Russia to participate in scholarship programs. Eventually, I won the scholarship and this time, it was easier for me because I had already studied in Russia before. 

And how did you discover ITMO? 

I knew that I wanted to study here in St. Petersburg and I had done my research well enough to know that ITMO is one of the best universities in Russia, especially for photonics research. 

That’s wonderful. So, what are you currently working on? 

Right now I am investigating the optical properties of photonic crystals with a new material called perovskite. I usually run simulations to study these optical properties, which will allow me to get a better understanding of what I am dealing with. Hopefully, I will be able to publish good papers based on my work.

How long have you been here as a PhD student? 

I've been here for 2 years now. I'm starting my 3rd year of PhD.

Is being a PhD student different from being a Master’s student?

Indeed, it is different in many ways. As a PhD student, I need to focus more on the details while doing research. It's a good thing that now I have more free time to focus on what I need to do. Doing a PhD is more like a job than attending school. You come here, you do your job, and you go home when you finish everything.

Since you compared it to work, how is the work culture at the Faculty of Physics? 

Actually, the atmosphere here is very good. Everyone is willing to help. The vibes here are excellent. You can talk to anyone, and share information about one another’s research topic. It's a big, strong community. 

Did you face any problems as a PhD student? 

A lot! The main challenge was getting used to academic life again. When you're just a student, you focus on studying and taking exams. But when you do research, you have to study and solve problems, all by yourself. And if you can't solve a problem, you have to study more. If you don't understand something, you have to keep studying until you finally understand everything. It’s quite different from studying for a Master’s degree.

Did you apply for grants in Russia? 

Yes, I tried to get grants but, unfortunately, couldn't win any. So, I focused on improving my portfolio by participating in several international conferences. I've been to two conferences recently – one in Moscow and one in Germany. Now, I'm working towards getting a year-long internship opportunity in China. I'm going to go there, work, and expand my horizons. 

That’s amazing. Tell us a little bit more about the opportunity in China.

I am going to do a one-year internship at the Harbin Institute of Technology. I got this opportunity thanks to my supervisor, who has great connections with Chinese researchers. Also, he's in China now, which makes it easier for me. 

When are you moving to China? 

Hopefully next month.

This is amazing. Are you excited about this new chapter? 

Actually, yes. I don't know how to feel because I'll be literally on the other side of the planet. I came from Peru and now I am going to live in a country that’s 13 hours away. It is going to be a new and exciting experience for me.

You have been in Russia for quite a long time. Do you feel any differences between St. Petersburg and Samara? 

Yes, of course. I like St. Petersburg more. In fact, I love this city. It is very cultural. The people here are very nice. I travel a lot and I can say that St. Petersburg is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been to. 

Have you gotten used to the Russian language yet? 

Yes, I have learned quite a lot now. I still come across difficult moments, but overall, I am quite satisfied and comfortable with my level of Russian.

Have you gotten used to the cold weather here? 

Yes, because I like it. For me, winter here is really very nice!

What about food? Do you have any favorite Russian recipes? 

Not really, because I'm from Latin America, where food is very important to us. At first, it was hard to get used to Russian food. And every time I felt that something was missing in the ingredients, in the taste. But slowly, I got used to everything.

What are your goals for the future?

My goal is to complete my PhD successfully. I can’t think of anything more now!

After your PhD is done, would you prefer to go back to Peru or settle down here? 

Honestly, I don't know if I'll go back to Peru. Maybe, maybe not. I want to just continue working as a researcher. I don't know if I'll be here in Russia or try to do something in Europe. We will see. 

Any advice for future PhD students?

My advice would be to take a step outside your comfort zone and come here. At least, give it a try. Unless you try, you will never know for sure if it suits you or not. The most important thing in life is experience. Never shy away from trying new things.