
‘Between Two Worlds’: How Psychologists Help International Students to Adapt in Russia
Language anxiety, crumbling of the usual ‘self’–practically every international student faces these and other challenges. On October 10, the World Mental Health Day, psychologists from HSE University-St Petersburg Tatiana Kazantseva and Ksenia Kashentseva shared how they help students overcome difficulties and adapt to life in a new country.

‘I Have Found My Second Family Here’: Waiz Siddiqui on His Studies at HSE University–St Petersburg
Waiz Siddiqui is a second-year student of the Master's programme 'Data Analytics for Business and Economics.' Having completed a bachelor's degree in business management in Pakistan, he decided to continue his studies abroad. He opted for HSE University–St Petersburg, and the Open Doors international scholarship programme helped him to carry out his plans. Read on to find out more about his adaptation to HSE University–St Petersburg and studying the Russian language.

‘HSE University–St Petersburg is Perfect for What I Was Seeking’
Every year, HSE University–St Petersburg welcomes international students from around the world not only for full-time programmes of all levels but also for academic mobility. This year, Michel Young Hernandez, a student from the Mexico Autonomous Institute of Technology, is among them. In this interview, Michel shares his experience of studying at HSE University–St Petersburg as an exchange student, why he decided to participate in the international mobility programme, and what his life in a new cultural landscape has been like.

My Ambassadorial Visit to Cameroon
The International Ambassadors project at HSE University-St Petersburg is a dynamic initiative, which empowers international students to represent the university in their home countries around the world. Established to build cultural bridges and strengthen the university’s global presence, the programme recruits highly motivated students who are passionate about international education and willing to share their HSE experience through events, outreach campaigns, and personal engagement. Ambassadors serve as cultural connectors offering firsthand insights into student life, academic opportunities, and the unique environment which define HSE University. The project also aims to foster long-term international cooperation and attract more diverse and talented applicants to one of Russia’s leading research universities.

'I Think It Is Fate': Student from Vietnam on Her Exchange Studies at HSE University-St Petersburg
Dao Khanh Linh, exchange student on the track 'Economics', came from Vietnam for one semester. During her studies at HSE University-St Petersburg, she found new friends, fell in love with the Russian language and made a list of top places in St Petersburg. Read on to find out about her plans for the future, work at the International Partners' Week and other interesting moments.
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‘HSE University–St Petersburg is Home Away from Home’
HSE University is not only about studies—it gives students much more. Enowmanyi Samuel Ayuk, a second-year student of the Master’s programme ‘International Business in the Asia-Pacific Region,’ came to Russia from Cameroon. With a background as an award-winning debater and a passion for leadership, he enthusiastically contributes to the life of HSE University–St Petersburg: he has become an international ambassador of the university and a member of the HSE University Student Council. In this interview, he shares his story and impressions of his studies.
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HSE University–St Petersburg Holds Fair of Nationalities of Russia
The HSE building on Kantemirovskaya Street hosted a fair that brought together representatives of various nationalities of Russia. Dagestanis, Komi-Permyaks, ethnic Russians, Yakuts, Nenets, and Pomors presented their native land, showcased national dishes, organised workshops, and performed a concert programme.

Nowruz at HSE University–St Petersburg: Spring Festival Unites Representatives of Various Cultures
The HSE building on Griboyedova Canal Embankment hosted an event devoted to Nowruz—an ancient Eastern festival symbolising the beginning of a new year and renewal of nature. Students of various universities from Pakistan, India, Iran, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Azerbaijan shared their distinctive local traditions, festive decorations, and national cultural practices.
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Academic Research at HSE University-St Petersburg: Opportunities and Experiences
HSE University holds the status of a National Research University, a prestigious title given to a limited number of universities in Russia. As such, it has a strong commitment to training students to conduct academic research starting from the first year of bachelor’s studies. The university rewards academic research and creates an environment where students can participate in research competitions and work in research centres.
Participants of ‘Cultural Cafe’ at HSE University-St Petersburg Share Their Experience of Academic Mobility in South Korea
The building at Griboyedova Canal Embankment hosted a meeting with international students from the South Korean universities of Chung Ang and Kyung Hee, as well as HSE students who went to South Korea on an academic mobility programme.
