Hello, thanks for joining me in this interview.
Thank you for having me. I am very pleased to talk to you today. Before coming to Russia, I read a lot of these interviews and they helped me learn a lot about ITMO and St. Petersburg. You’re doing an amazing job!
Thank you for your appreciation! Please introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Padanada Mewezinoh from a small African country called Togo, officially known as the Togolese Republic. I was born and brought up in the capital city of Togo, Lomé, which is also the largest city of the country. My country experiences a tropical climate, as a result of which the minimal temperature we have in a year is 22℃.
Tell us something about the culture of Togo.
The people of Togo are very close and strongly bonded with each other. We have many ethnic groups living closely, sharing values and resources unconditionally.
Is there a Togolese dish that you like the most?
I have more than one favorite. My top three Togolese dishes are dokunu, ayimolu, and fufu. All of them are made with cereals and vegetables such as legumes, cassava, and yam.
What motivated you to come to Russia?
After completing my Bachelor’s degree seven years ago, I started working at an IT company in Togo. One day, a client gave me a project regarding St. Petersburg. As a result, I did a lot of research on this city and quickly found out about its grandeur. Since that time, I had a wish to come to St. Petersburg and do something. Eventually, I decided to pursue a Master’s degree in the city and here I am!
Padanada learned about St. Petersburg thanks to a project at work. Since then, he dreamt of living in this city, which ultimately became true. Photo courtesy of the subject
How did you discover ITMO?
I was searching for the best university in St. Petersburg that offered a Master’s program in IT and ITMO came up as the top result every time. After a bit of digging, I was sure that ITMO is indeed the best university to study IT not only in Russia but also in the world.
What are you studying at ITMO?
I am currently enrolled in the Foundation Program, where I am learning the Russian language. However, come September, I will be a Master’s student in software engineering.
Did you have any knowledge of the Russian language before?
Not really. I did read some guides and watch some videos before coming to Russia but that cannot be counted as knowing the language. So, at the Foundation Program, I pretty much started from zero!
How has your life been at ITMO so far?
It has been extremely rewarding to be an ITMO student. One of the best things about this university is that there is no discrimination. As a foreigner, I have never been treated differently. Even though I am far from home, I don’t feel homesick. ITMO is my home now!
Are you studying on a scholarship?
Yes, I am studying on a full scholarship offered by the Russian government. The application procedure for this scholarship was simple, making it one of the best options for international students.
Does St. Petersburg feel as good as the information about it you found online?
It is in fact better than what I saw online! St. Petersburg is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The architecture is very impressive, making it a major tourist destination.
Have you tried Russian cuisine yet?
I haven’t tried Russian food yet but I am sure it is delicious. However, during Maslenitsa I did try a few blinis with a fruit filling. They were yum!
What do you like to do in your free time?
In the winter, it is quite difficult to do anything outdoors, so I had to settle for indoor activities like listening to music and reading books. However, I will go out for walks during the spring and summer.
“Strolling in the parks of St. Petersburg is one of my favorite leisure activities”, says Padanada. Photo courtesy of the subject
What are your plans for the future?
On one hand, I would like to return to my country and work but on the other hand, I would like to do a PhD. So, even if I do go back home, I will return to ITMO sooner or later.
Any advice for wanna-be ITMO students?
ITMO is one of the best universities in the world, not only in terms of academics but also in terms of humanitarian values. So if anyone wants to study abroad irrespective of their country, I would highly recommend ITMO to them. The administrative staff here is one of the best in business, so you can expect a hassle-free, fun-filled life where you can thoroughly focus on your career and growth.
