Where are you from?
I am a 19-year-old resident of Cairo, the capital city of Egypt. It is located on the bank of the longest river in the world, the Nile. The city is famous for its rich culture and history. Cairo is the treasury of artifacts of the Egyptian civilization.
What is your favorite place in Egypt?
Sharm-el-Sheikh will definitely be on the top of my list. It is a beautiful city on the Southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, situated on the coastal strip of the Red Sea. Due to the presence of numerous breathtaking pyramids, it has grown to be a popular tourist destination. Whenever I visit this city, I get involved in many activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.
What are you studying at ITMO?
I am currently enrolled in ITMO’s Foundation Program, where I am learning the Russian language. After completing this course, I will enter the Bachelor’s program in programming and communication systems. Everyone in my family works in the telecommunication industry, so it only makes sense for me to pursue a similar career.
Why ITMO?
A friend of mine told me that ITMO is the best university in Russia. Now I can see why he said it. He wasn’t exaggerating at all. ITMO is a unique place to get your education at. Unlike many higher education institutions, ITMO is a modern university that lays a very high emphasis on innovation. At ITMO, you not only learn but also get ready for the real world. It is a place where leaders are made. Undoubtedly, studying at ITMO was a dream come true for me.
“St. Petersburg is an exciting city and I love being here,” says Mostafa. Photo courtesy of the subject
How would you describe your life in Russia?
It has been really exciting. The winter was of course a challenge. But with proper clothing and many cups of coffee, I was able to endure it pretty well. The city is mesmerizing with its jaw-dropping architecture. Its walls have been witness to so many historic events. And whenever I spot graffiti, I imagine the walls as pages of an ancient book.
Have you made friends here?
Yes, I have made many new friends from Morocco, India, Pakistan, and other countries. I also have a few Russian friends. I am really enjoying the diverse cultural experience here in St. Petersburg.
Where do you currently live?
I live in the dormitory located on Vyazemsky Lane. It is a fantastic place to live. The dormitory is very clean with all modern facilities. It is a block-type dorm. The kitchen is also well-stocked with the necessary appliances.
What are your favorite places in St. Petersburg?
I really like the Hermitage. I have never seen anything so beautiful. It is full of creations made by prominent international artists across world history. I have already visited it multiple times. The exterior is also majestic.
Do you like Russian food?
Not so much. I enjoy Egyptian food more. I cook for myself whenever I get the chance. Otherwise, I prefer to eat at the stolovaya (ITMO cafeteria).
Mostafa’s favorite place in St. Petersburg is the Hermitage. Photo courtesy of the subject
Are you into sports?
Yes, I am an amateur football player. I used to play for my school in Egypt. My favorite football club in Egypt is El-Ahly SC. In Europe, the club that I root for is Liverpool FC.
Who are your favorite footballers?
I am a huge fan of Mohammed Salah, the talisman from Egypt. He has inspired countless youngsters in my home country. Almost every child in Egypt now believes that they can become Mo Salah one day. I also like Lionel Messi a lot. He is an unmatched talent.
