Student Spotlight: Faridun Fayziev, Tajikistan

Hi Faridun! What got you interested in software engineering?

Since the 6th grade, I have been engaged in programming and participated in competitions. In high school, I started to study software development in depth. I really enjoyed it and was good at it. Since then, I have wanted to become a software developer.

What made you choose ITMO for your Bachelor’s, and how has the journey been so far?

I had many friends who were older than me and who enrolled at ITMO. When it was my turn to choose a university, ITMO was one of the best universities on my list; an additional advantage was that my friends studied there and recommended it to me. I started looking for opportunities to study tuition-free. One option was the quota provided by the Government of the Russian Federation. I applied, took the exams, and based on my results and achievements in programming, I was admitted to ITMO.

Software engineering can mean many things: apps, AI, web platforms, you name it. Which area excites you the most right now?

Now I am able to develop web and mobile applications, and I am studying AI in depth. My plan is to create an AI-powered web and mobile application.

Tell us about a class or project at ITMO that you’ve really enjoyed.

We had many subjects where we created web applications using technologies that were new to me – for instance, a mobile app for tracking proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, a 3D game in Unity, databases (both relational and non-relational), and our own neural network models. In all these courses, we developed applications, and each of them helped me gain a great deal of knowledge in its respective field.

What’s it been like adjusting to life in St. Petersburg?

Since Tajikistan was part of the USSR, Russian culture has remained in our country. In Tajikistan, I had Russian friends, and I communicated with them in Russian. They often invited me to their celebrations, so Russian culture has always felt close to me.

Outside of studies, what’s your favorite way to unwind?

In addition to my studies, I also work in my field of specialization at ITMO. As for my hobbies, I play the guitar, and sometimes my friends and I play computer games together.

What’s it been like connecting with peers from so many different countries?

They introduced me to their cultures, shared many interesting things, and showed me beautiful places. This gives us valuable experience and broadens our horizons. Perhaps one day my friends and I will launch a joint application.

Do you have a favorite spot in St. Petersburg that you visit when you need inspiration, focus, or just a mental reset?

St. Petersburg is a place where, no matter where you go, the beauty of the architecture and the atmosphere always bring inspiration and new ideas.

What’s one thing you miss the most about home in Tajikistan?

I miss my relatives, the friends I grew up with, and the nature of Tajikistan the most. Home is that place where you can always return to and know you will be welcomed. 

What are your future plans?

I want to start my own business, a company that will improve people’s lives and become a place where it is comfortable to work and that is truly inspiring.

Looking ahead, do you see yourself as more of an innovator, building your own products, or as part of a team tackling big tech challenges?

More of an innovator who creates exciting products and, based on them, brings together talented people to develop even better ones.

Finally, what advice would you give to future Tajik students who are thinking about studying abroad at ITMO?

I would say that if you have the opportunity to study abroad, you should definitely take that chance. It will open many doors, broaden your horizons, introduce you to new people, new things, and new opportunities.