From Korea to Russia: Junseo Lee on His Master’s Studies at HSE University-St Petersburg
Every year, HSE University welcomes more than a thousand students from all over the world. In 2024, Junseo Lee, a student from South Korea, came to HSE University-St Petersburg as a master’s student of the programme ‘Comparative Politics of Eurasia’. In the article, Junseo shares the story of why he chose St Petersburg and HSE University in particular and his personal experience of living and studying in Russia as a foreign student.
.jpg "From Korea to Russia: Junseo Lee on His Master’s Studies at HSE University-St Petersburg")
First Steps
In 2019, during a difficult time in my life, I found myself in St Petersburg, Russia, by chance. While many people plan trips to famous European cities, the United States, or even a nearby Asian country, I was drawn to the city by a random Google map that caught my eye. My short stay of about two months was more inspiring and transformative than I could have imagined. The gorgeous architecture, rich history, and colourful culture made me say: ‘I'll definitely be back.’
I majored in business administration during my bachelor’s degree, which I found fascinating, but I was also very interested in political science and international relations. Learning about how societies change and how relations between countries develop was something that has broadened my outlook on life beyond just theory. As I approached graduation, I wondered, ‘How can I explore my studies from a more unique and new perspective?’ Though it's an uncommon choice in my country, I was drawn to the uniqueness of Russia. Initially, my idea was met with some scepticism, but the challenge of living in such an unusual country was what attracted me.
Preparatory Year and Concerns
In 2023, rather than entering the full-time programme, I took a preparatory programme at a university in St Petersburg to strengthen my language skills and adapt to the academic environment more easily. This helped me to learn Russian in earnest and familiarise myself with the local culture and lifestyle.
However, in the back of my mind, I was also concerned about the rigid university atmosphere. I felt that I needed a more flexible environment, where students could freely discuss and exchange knowledge. However, the preparatory programme I attended had a very theoretical curriculum, and I felt that the voices of individual students were not being heard.
When I shared these concerns with my friends, one of them recommended I apply to HSE University. My first thought was: ‘Is this an economics school?’ But the more I looked into it, the more I realised that there are a variety of majors from social sciences to physics and design. A lot of programmes are taught in English. Students have a wide choice of subjects, and the faculty and curriculum are very international.
Meeting HSE University
To apply to HSE University, I paid a lot of attention to preparing for my interview and documents, not only in Russian but also in English. I carefully worked on my motivation letter and academic plan to show that despite having majored in business administration, I was also interested in political science and international relations. During the interview with the academic supervisor, I spoke a mixture of Russian and English, emphasising my passions and goals.
Fortunately, my sincerity paid off. I scored well in the interview, which resulted in a 50% scholarship offer. As I was facing a lot of financial burdens while preparing to study abroad, the scholarship was a huge blessing and motivation for me. From this point on, I was convinced that I could really make a new start in Russia. I flew back to St Petersburg with a heart full of anticipation rather than fear.
New Academic Environment and Freedom
When I joined HSE University, the first difference I noticed was the 'flexible atmosphere'. The teaching style alone was different with students actively contributing their opinions and discussions rather than just being told what to do. During class, professors and students freely exchange questions and share different opinions on pre-announced topics.
This culture of discussion has made it possible to train students to think about real-world issues and international affairs rather than just learning theories in class. It felt strange at first because I was used to a rigid teaching style. I gradually got used to it and learned to think more deeply and speak with more confidence.
Another thing that impressed me was the freedom to choose subjects. I wanted to deepen my studies in political science and international relations, so I focused my master’s programme on courses in those areas. At the same time, I wanted to expand my knowledge in business administration, so I opted for some economics-related courses as well. Being able to customise my curriculum across these different fields of study has greatly stimulated my intellectual curiosity and increased my motivation to study.
Not only do I get to use the Russian language in real life, but I also get to interact with students from all over the world. Whether it's my friend from Paris, my roommate from Vietnam, or my classmate from India, I'm surrounded by people from different nationalities and cultures, and I'm naturally developing a sense of internationalism.
Dreams and Plans for the Future
Studying at HSE University has given me a more specific idea of what I want to do. I want to become a professional working for an international organisation or a global company, combining the business sphere with an integrated political, economic, and social perspective.
In fact, the university supports students in organising their graduate research, seminars, and club activities in line with their career goals. Thanks to this, I am gaining knowledge and experience in a variety of fields, while solidifying my future goals.
Am I Happy about My Choice?
When I first came to St Petersburg in 2019, I just wanted to leave Korea and travel to shake off my daily boredom. However, I think that small step turned out to be a huge turning point in my study abroad experience.
The rigid atmosphere I felt during my preparatory studies at other universities instilled in me the desire to study in an academic environment with more flexibility and a more diverse perspective. HSE University was the place that fulfilled all of these requirements. I was awarded a 50% scholarship after scoring well in the interview process, which allowed me to focus on my studies in a more stable and relaxed manner.
Studying abroad is a challenge for anyone, but it is also an invaluable opportunity to gain new cultural and academic perspectives. As Russia is still an undiscovered study destination for Korean students, I think the potential possibilities are endless. The liberal academic style, wide range of course options, and interaction with passionate professors and students that I have found at HSE University will definitely be a great asset in my life.
If you are interested in studying abroad in Russia or HSE University in general, I hope that my experience will be of some help to you. Studying abroad can be challenging and overwhelming at times, but my passion and curiosity about the new world I've encountered on my travels is what keeps me going. I hope all of you will find the same courage and inspiration.
Text by Junseo Lee, 1st-year student of the master’s programme ‘Comparative Politics of Eurasia’