Student Spotlight: Reham Adel Hammoud, Syria

Hi, Reham! Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, my name is Reham, I’m 22 years old, and I’m from Syria. I completed my high school education at the National Center for the Distinguished in Syria, an institution that selects only the top 75 students nationwide each year. This experience helped me develop a strong discipline and a passion for excellence. Later, I pursued my higher education at Damascus University, where I earned a degree in biomedical sciences.

Can you share something interesting or unique about your hometown?

I'm originally from Tartus, but I was born and grew up in Damascus. I actually love both of the cities; the Tartus region, with its captivating beauty, fresh air, flowing rivers, and green mountains, is a paradise on Earth. It's where my soul breathes deepest. And of course, Damascus, the capital of Syria, is the oldest continuously inhabited capital in the world, with a history dating back over 11,000 years!

That’s so cool. But what inspired you to pursue education abroad?

I decided to study abroad because I wanted to immerse myself in a global academic environment. Beyond that, I wanted to challenge myself by adapting to a new culture, becoming more independent, and gaining qualities that will help me in my future career.

And why did you choose Russia?

My father encouraged me to study in Russia, having been a student there himself in his youth. He wanted me to experience that same wonderful journey, and would often share captivating stories about St. Petersburg's breathtaking beauty and the exceptional quality of education there.

That’s fascinating! How did you discover ITMO?

Many of my friends currently study at ITMO, and they strongly recommended it to me. Besides, it consistently ranks among the top universities in Russia. My friends particularly praised its innovative approach to education, which combines academic traditions with modern methodologies.

You’re currently in the Foundation Program. How has that experience been so far?

It has been an exceptionally rich and rewarding experience. Immersing myself in both the Russian language and culture while interacting with students from different countries created a uniquely stimulating environment. While learning Russian is genuinely enjoyable, it also presents an exciting challenge – one that requires dedicated practice, especially through conversations with native speakers.

What’s been the most difficult part of learning Russian?

The most challenging aspects are the grammatical cases (which alter nouns, adjectives, and pronouns) and verb aspects (perfective/imperfective pairs). While vocabulary is easier, the real hurdle comes in understanding spontaneous speech, where you must instantly combine overlapping rules with rapid native pronunciation.

Have you discovered any methods or daily habits that help you learn the language more effectively?

Yes, I've been adding little Russian-boosting habits to my daily life that make a big difference. Like playing Russian radio at random times – mornings or while I study – which really trains my ear for how natives actually speak. I can already feel myself getting better at catching words and understanding natural speech rhythms. Plus, I watch authentic Russian YouTube stuff – interviews, stories, podcasts – to soak up the language as it's really used.

Have you had any funny or memorable moments while trying to communicate in Russian?

I'll never forget those funny moments in my early days – whether shopping, riding the metro, or talking with Russian roommates. At first, comprehending speech felt nearly impossible, and responding was even more challenging. When I desperately asked, “Could you repeat that?”, locals would helpfully and enthusiastically repeat the exact same rapid Russian, not realizing I needed slower pronunciation, not increased volume!

Next year, you’ll begin your Master’s in biotechnology. What excites you most about this field?

It's power to change life at its core! With AI speeding up discoveries, we’re seeing faster vaccines, custom treatments, and even ways to slow aging. Whether it’s cleaning the environment with microbes or linking brains to computers, biotech is solving big problems in bold new ways. 

What areas of biotechnology are you most interested in?

I love medical biotechnology because it turns the impossible into hope, where a single scientific breakthrough can rewrite destinies. This is more than science; it’s a lifeline, a promise that no illness is unconquerable. Every discovery, from regenerating damaged hearts to vaccines tailored to a person’s DNA, feels like a miracle made real. That’s why I love it: because in test tubes and data, I see humanity’s fiercest act of love – fighting for each other.

What do you hope to achieve with your degree, either in research or real-world applications?

After earning my PhD, I aspire to get into specialized medical research, where I can apply the knowledge and skills I’ve gained during my studies. My goal is to contribute to groundbreaking biomedical research that bridges the gap between theory and real-world solutions. I’m particularly passionate about targeted cancer treatments, where I believe my work could directly impact patient outcomes. Long-term, I hope to publish impactful research, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and help translate lab findings into clinical applications that save or improve lives.

How has your experience living in St. Petersburg been so far? 

It has been absolutely wonderful! The city feels like an open-air museum – every detail is captivating, from its stunning architecture to its remarkable cleanliness.. I’m excited to explore more in the summer and discover hidden gems. What surprised me the most is how the city blends history with modern life – it’s truly magical!

What do you enjoy most about the city?

I love how every corner tells a story. My favorite spot is Nevsky Prospect – it’s alive with energy and iconic landmarks. Walking down this street feels like stepping into a painting, with its grand buildings and bustling atmosphere. I also adore the canals and bridges.

How did you adapt to the weather and cultural differences? Was anything particularly surprising?

It was smoother than I expected! The weather was my biggest concern, but this year’s mild winter helped me adjust gradually. Culturally, I was pleasantly surprised by how warm and helpful locals are, despite the “cold” stereotype. The biggest surprise? How much Russians celebrate small moments. It’s a city that values depth in everyday life.

Have you already made friends here?

Absolutely! I’ve been fortunate to build friendships with students from all over the world. Each has been a window into a new culture – what surprised me most is how these friendships transformed my thinking and broadened my horizons. This international community isn’t just about networking; it’s about discovering how beautifully diverse yet interconnected our world is.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

In my free time, I’m passionate about reading – especially Russian literature. Anton Chekhov has become a favorite of mine; his stories captivate me with their psychological depth and humanity. For now, I am reading his works translated into Arabic, but I dream of one day understanding them in the original language as I improve my skills.

Have you had the chance to travel around the country?

I haven’t had the opportunity to explore other Russian cities yet, but I’m already dreaming of future adventures! At the top of my list is Moscow – I’m eager to immerse myself in its iconic landmarks. Beyond the capital, I’d love to visit Sochi and Kazan. Each city seems to tell a different chapter of Russia’s story, and I can’t wait to discover their histories, cuisines, and local traditions firsthand.

What’s something new you’ve learned about yourself since moving abroad?

Living abroad has revealed hidden strengths I never knew I had – like self-reliance, courage, and discipline. The most surprising lesson? Discovering how resilient I am! There were moments of loneliness, but they taught me to embrace discomfort and grow from it. Now, I see challenges as opportunities to test my limits.

What advice would you give to future ITMO students?

Prepare for a journey that’s as enriching as it is challenging. Academically, don’t hesitate to ask questions – professors appreciate curiosity. Start learning basic Russian phrases early. Even imperfect attempts open doors with locals. Invest in a good coat – St. Petersburg’s beauty shines in snow, but -15°C demands preparation! Most importantly, arrive with an open mind. The cutting-edge science here will change how you see the world. It did for me.