What are you studying at ITMO?
Currently, I am enrolled in the Foundation Program where I am learning Russian. I also have a few introductory courses in mathematics and physics. From September 2023, I will start my Bachelor’s degree program in software engineering.
Where are you from and what is your native language?
I am from a city called Pabna in Bangladesh. My native language is Bangla. We are known as Bengalis or Bangladeshis.
How has your Russian learning experience been so far?
I find Russian difficult, especially the grammar. I am still quite new to the course. Nevertheless, I am learning steadily.
What made you interested in software engineering?
In high school, I started to learn about programming languages and software development. I learned how to create algorithms using C, C++, and Java. I realized that I enjoy doing this and hence I decided to pursue higher education in the same field.
Why did you decide to study in Russia?
There are a number of reasons behind this decision. First of all, the Russian educational system is well-recognized all across the world. Therefore, with a degree obtained from a Russian university, a student can work anywhere in the world. Also, I am a big fan of this country’s cultural heritage.
What do you like the most about Russian culture?
I find their traditions and lifestyle very interesting. I haven’t observed them closely enough to mention anything in particular, but maybe in the future, I will be able to.
“I love the city of St. Petersburg. It is one of the most beautiful cities on the planet,” says Hasan. Photo courtesy of the subject
How did you come across ITMO?
I searched many universities in Russia which offer good programs in software engineering. That’s how I came across ITMO. I found out that it is a very highly-ranked university that offers many innovative courses.
Is ITMO University well-known in Bangladesh?
Yes indeed. ITMO is very popular among students in my country and they consider it one of the top institutions in the world.
What was everyone’s reaction like when they found out that you got accepted to ITMO?
My friends were really surprised to find out that I am going to study at ITMO. Everyone in my family was, of course, very happy and I couldn’t believe it. Many of my friends also want to study at ITMO and they will be applying next year.
How did it feel to travel to St. Petersburg?
It was my first trip to Russia. Honestly, I was nervous at first. But once I arrived here, I started to feel the excitement. The city is very interesting and I can’t wait to explore it more.
The cold weather must be very new to you. How are you coping?
It is extremely cold here, nothing like my country. But I find it not very difficult. On the contrary, I am really enjoying the snowscapes and the hot beverages here. With proper clothing, I am able to survive comfortably.
Hasan is enjoying the winter but advises everyone to take care and wrap themselves up well! Photo courtesy of the subject
Where are you staying?
I am living in one of ITMO’s dormitories, located on Vyazemsky Lane.
Do you share your room with other students?
Yes, I share my room with two other guys and both of them are from Bangladesh. It is a great advantage to have roommates from your own country. It helps us settle in better.
What has been your experience with Russian food so far?
I do like Russian cuisine, but it’s not that spicy. Being a Bangladeshi, I love that extra bit of spice in everything. However, I am open to exploring the dishes here. Shawarma is widely available in St. Petersburg and I like it a lot.
What’s your best memory of St. Petersburg so far?
I consider myself very lucky to have got the chance to visit Yagodnoe in the first week of my arrival here. It is such a beautiful place. The lake is pristine! Given a chance, I’d sure like to visit it again.
Final question, what do you think of Russian people?
They are very kind and helpful, unlike what we are told or what we usually see in movies. Russia is a beautiful country with very good values.
