«Diverse, inclusive and open-minded»: First-year students about the program in Political Science and World Politics
Every year many students from various regions of the world apply to the BA program in Political Science at HSE University. Our first-year students have shared their reasons to join the program, as well as their first impressions of the university and country.
Franco Ramirez from Mexico
I found out about HSE university through a browse in the QS World University Rankings, where it appeared in a high position in the field of political science. I had always known that I wanted to study political science in a prestigious and vanguardist university with an international perspective, where I could be able to broaden my horizons by exchanging thoughts with peers from all over the world. Upon further investigation, I discovered that HSE fulfilled these characteristics. Furthermore, the PSWP program seemed like the perfect fit for me. The characteristic that attracted me the most was its holistic approach which combined a great variety of subjects that I’m certain will complement my future practice as a political scientist.
I never considered it possible to study in Russia (especially because I do not speak Russian), but favorable conditions arose, allowing me to take on this opportunity. I finally chose to study here because it is a country with an impressive cultural and historical heritage which I know will immensely enhance my worldview. However, I must admit it was not an easy decision to make. Moving to study in a completely different country across the world was frightening, but my family’s unconditional support, the scholarship opportunities at HSE, and its uniquely comprehensive programme encouraged me to take on this challenge and begin a new and exciting chapter in my life.
When someone asks me what I like the most about HSE University, it is their project and research opportunities that encourage students to keep learning outside of the lecture halls and become more knowledgeable in the fields that interests them the most. I would also like to make a mention of the incredible teachers and faculty who are always eager to share their knowledge and help us, the students, to develop our capacities to the fullest. When I graduate from HSE, I would like to enter the workforce and keep learning about the subjects that interest me the most either by pursuing graduate education or by engaging in research work, all of it focused on improving the conditions of society and making this world a better place one step at a time.
Speaking about the tips that I would like to give to applicants, I think the best piece of advice is to start learning from today about the subjects that you enjoy and to not be afraid to apply. Trusting your capacities is key as you never know where they may take you (hopefully we will be able to say hi to each other at the HSE corridors!).
There are three words to describe HSE: modern, open, and exciting.
Santoshchandra Chitrapu from India
I have heard about HSE University from my family, and also attended some online events, like webinars and some marketing sessions. There are many good universities in Russia, but HSE has attracted me for a few reasons: simple admission procedure, the glamorous image and high international accreditation, the environment and the opportunities offered, like the research paper competition, project activities, academic mobility, career guidance and special programs like the Social Sciences Honors Track. Overall, it can become a starting point for a nice career.
I particularly chose the programme in Political Science and World Politics because of its curriculum, the English language of instruction and location, because I prefer St. Petersburg among other Russian cities. Moreover, I am quite confident in my knowledge of the subject, that is why it is easier for me to study. I want to get a diploma with distinction and have good academic standing.
I expect this program to fill in any gaps in my knowledge and skills related to the field. Also, I would like the program to keep its promise: “We will make future political scientists out of our students”.
I recommend the future applicants to keep your papers in order, make sure you are oriented with the education process, and take care of formalities. In my opinion, HSE should be the obvious choice for someone looking for a good education outside the Western World, if one wants to study abroad, and is good for both degree and exchange programs.
Redwan Ahmed from Bangladesh
I started hunting for a university with one thing in mind — I want to study political science and I want to study it in Russia. The HSE came up with my online research for universities in Russia. It showed up having good rankings and I liked the program. I was very biased towards it at first, I knew what I wanted from this program, but the PSWP program of the HSE in St. Petersburg seemed to have what I wanted. That is why I chose it. Another thing also factored in: the curriculum had to be in English, and it was. Also, Russia is positioned in a very interesting geographical location. It has a rich historical background and its location in the junction of Europe and Asia makes it a lot more fascinating. The relationship of the Russian Federation with the EU, Britain and the United States is definitely something that can’t go unnoticed. I was very keen to observe the post-soviet era firsthand at ground zero. These are the reasons I thought Russia is the place to go for my higher education.
Unfortunately, I still haven’t got the chance to set foot in the university premise so far. However, I have already been to the class with the teachers and faculties. I really liked the depth of knowledge, frankness and the openness of our teachers. The seminars are really interesting, and our instructors put a lot of effort into making our studying process enjoyable and effective.
While studying at this programme, I am planning to get as much knowledge as possible about politics and the science behind it. Also, I want to focus a lot on the regional politics of Asia as well as Politics around the globe.
I would like to give advice to the future applicants also: first of all, check the dates! I remember my first time applying, I messed up with the deadlines. So carefully go through the documents and keep track of the dates. Also, keep an eye open for different olympiads and scholarship competitions. I didn’t know much about them when I really needed it. If you have any questions, just write to the international office. They are helpful. And finally, to describe the university in three words: It is diverse, inclusive and open-minded.