Tell us something about your hometown and your country.
I am from Maputo City, the capital of Mozambique. It is a southern African country with lots of beaches and offshore marine parks.
What do you like the most about your country?
I love my country for its cultural and social diversity. Also, the beaches that line our coast are breathtaking. I really like the warmth of the city and the good mood among people.
How would you describe the people of your country?
People in my country are dreamers and fighters who love to have high ambitions and hustle their way through to the top. And I must add that I am no exception to this trait.
Why did you decide to study in Russia?
Studying abroad is a huge opportunity for every student. I particularly decided to study in Russia in order to fulfill my dream of getting to know this giant country and also to benefit from its vast pool of knowledge and expertise.
What are you studying currently?
I am enrolled in the Foundation Program, where I am studying the Russian language. Upon its completion, I will start a Bachelor’s program in computer systems and technologies.
What made you interested in your field?
I grew up spending a lot of time with computers. I used to love playing video games. As a result, I was curious to know how the world that I loved so much was made. Also, as I grew up, I saw how the world became heavily dependent on computers. It is the present and the future of mankind and I want to understand it better.
Do you prefer online or offline lectures?
I prefer face-to-face classes because there is more interaction between students and the teacher. I really like the moments they provide and I believe that helps students to focus better. There’s distraction galore in remote study.
How well do you speak Russian? Do you find it difficult to learn?
I don't speak Russian well but I'm enjoying learning it. The grammar is difficult but fun to learn. Overall the language is hard but also very interesting. The most difficult part is memorizing new words.
Do you like Russian food? What is your favorite Russian dish?
Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I have not gotten the proper taste of the cuisine yet. But so far, the impression has been really good. I like it.
Marshell likes exploring the city. Photo courtesy of the subject
How difficult is it for you to attend classes during snowfall?
It has been difficult to adapt to this weather. When it snows, walking becomes even more difficult. The visibility is reduced significantly. Also, there are more chances of falling down on the snow and hurting yourself. Therefore, you need to be very careful.
How are you preparing yourself for exams?
For the exams, I choose to dedicate myself to the homework that the teacher gives at the end of each class because I believe in the process. Practicing it over and over again really helps me during the exam.
What apps did you download especially for Russia?
I had no idea that I would need to download so many different apps once I entered the country, but they are all worth it. Here are the ones that I use the most nowadays – Yandex Maps, Yandex Go, Yandex Translate, and some food delivery apps like Yandex Eats and Dostaevsky.
What are your hobbies?
I don’t get much leisure time but when I do, I either write my thoughts in a diary or watch football. And of course, I love to sleep like a bear!
