Tell us something about yourself.
I am a 27-year-old citizen of Mexico. At ITMO, I am studying for a Master’s degree in quality management at the Faculty of Technological Management and Innovations. I am a chemical engineer by training. I graduated three years ago. After my graduation, I worked as an engineer in Mexico.
What led you to study chemical engineering?
When I was in high school, I loved chemistry and was really good at it. During my senior year in college, I realized that I was really interested in quality control. I went on to do a certification course on quality control from Arizona State University.
What do your studies at ITMO include?
We are taught about audits and certifications. The goal of this program is to train us to certify companies in Russia and check whether every product or service that they provide complies with both national as well as international guidelines. To do that, we thoroughly examine each product’s toxicity, manufacturing process, etc. We also make sure they fulfill the customers’ expectations and needs.
How did you come across ITMO and the Quality Management program?
I did a lot of research about universities in St. Petersburg. Amongst the results, ITMO attracted me the most. Interestingly, I had made up my mind about studying in this city way before I found out about ITMO. It was as if I was destined to be here, and all the stars aligned at the right time.
Ana’s favorite place in St. Petersburg is Palace Square. Photo courtesy of the subject 
Can you communicate in Russian?
I studied Russian in the Foundation Program during the pandemic. However, I must admit that it is not so easy to learn a foreign language remotely, as you cannot practice it with anyone after class. When I first arrived in Russia, I had a hard time trying to communicate with the locals. For instance, whenever I ordered a cup of coffee, I would get lost in the follow-up questions such as do you need milk? or how much sugar would you like?
Did you get an ITMO Buddy?
Yes, I did get a buddy and he is an absolute angel! His name is Aleksei and he is a very nice guy. He helped me a lot. Even before I arrived in Russia, he used to send me useful resources and information about life in Russia. He met me at the airport, brought me dinner on the first day, and helped me move into my dormitory. It was heavenly to have someone who knows the country well from day one helping me out.
Which dormitory are you staying in?
I live in the dormitory located on Vyazemsky Lane. It is a very comfortable place to live in. The location is good. Overall, I am satisfied with ITMO’s dormitories.
“The Church on the Savior of Spilled Blood is an architectural masterpiece,” says Ana. Photo courtesy of the subject
What are your hobbies?
I am very concerned about my fitness. So exercising is one of my major hobbies. Besides that, I love singing, watching series, hanging out with my friends, visiting museums, and vlogging. In Mexico, I used to read books but I have somehow lost that habit. I am hopeful of regaining that hobby soon.
Do you like Russian food?
That’s a complicated question. It has been hard for me, honestly. It is different. I cannot judge it but it is new to me. Here, people eat a lot of vegetables while I am used to eating a lot of meat and protein. I also feel that food is a bit expensive here. In a nutshell, I haven’t been able to find “my Russian food” yet.
Have you considered cooking your own food?
I can cook. In fact, I love cooking. But in the dorm, the kitchen is not appropriate to prepare a gourmet meal. Because so many people share the same kitchen, you cannot focus on your job properly. Also, there is no refrigerator where I can store dairy products. Therefore, I don’t usually cook my own food now.
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
I would love to be placed in a company as a quality manager. However, I have not yet decided whether I would like to work in Russia or in Mexico. Maybe, I would like to explore a new country altogether. Only time can tell!
