‘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.

HSE University–St Petersburg

— How did you learn about the university?

— I was already in Russia, studying Russian in Stavropol, in the south. After my language programme, I was looking for a university, so I googled the best international universities in Russia. I found HSE University–St Petersburg and others and sent emails to their international departments. The HSE admissions team was quick to reply. I asked about scholarships and the admission process, got feedback, and they told me to go ahead and apply. Another thing which attracted me was HSE’s reputation. It’s arguably one of Russia’s best universities. But the quick response was a good signal for me—I liked that. I checked their website and VK page, and saw tons of extracurricular activities, like the debate club, which I love. That hooked me. I wanted to join HSE University’s debate scene. As for the programme, I originally aimed to do international business. When I saw the Master’s programme ‘International Business in the Asia-Pacific Region,’ I thought: ‘Close enough, just a different case study’.

— What was the admission process like for you?

I’d say it was pretty smooth—not really difficult or easy, just smooth. There were some challenges, but the admission team was always ready to help. They’d reply to emails within a maximum of two days, so I never waited long. That made it easier since I didn’t have guidance from a senior HSE University student or anyone else. I communicated directly with the admissions coordinators via WhatsApp and email, and that support helped me finalise the process.

As for the practical part, I participated in a portfolio competition, for which I had to submit my documents. First, an applicant needs to create an account on the university's website and submit their documents. The list of documents may differ depending on the education level one wants to pursue. In my case, I submitted my first-degree certificate, a recommendation letter, a motivation letter (also known as a personal statement), and some awards and recognitions I had received. My main focus was on making a strong motivation letter, which took some time as I had to rewrite and edit it multiple times. After I submitted the documents and they were accepted, I was scheduled for an interview. I received an admission offer along with a full scholarship a few days after the interview. The prompt response from the admissions team was immensely helpful.

— Life in Russia is different from Africa, from Cameroon. What is your experience of living here?

— It was difficult at first, but it’s getting easier now. Why was it tough at the start? These are two different worlds—Cameroon and Russia. I didn’t understand the language: if someone said ‘run,’ I wouldn’t know to move. Beyond the language, I arrived knowing no one—no friends, no family—unlike others. The weather was a shock too. I’d never experienced minus two or three degrees before. Cameroon’s hot, maybe 27 degrees at maximum, though Russia’s summer can beat that. But having no friends hit me hard. As a leader in Cameroon, I was surrounded by people to talk to, but here, I felt isolated—almost depressed. Then, with open-mindedness and getting into activities, I started meeting new people. Now, my big gain is cross-cultural competence. I’ve made close friends from Indonesia, Nigeria, Ghana, and India—not just Russia. That mix of cultures is a huge plus for me.

As for the language, I’ve got the basics down. I studied Russian for two months, so I can ask for directions, buy what I need, or express simple things. My Russian’s not bad—I can read too, which helps me figure things out. Language is still a barrier but for everyday stuff—shopping, taking a taxi, finding an address—it’s enough for me.

— You’ve mentioned that extracurricular life at HSE University was one of reasons which attracted you. Can you share your experience with it?

— I think public speaking and debates are fun—I’ve been doing them for years. Back in Cameroon, I started debating professionally in 2017 on Cameroon International TV. I was an award-winning debater, trainer, and speaker. Even in southern Russia, I was a champion in the English category. When I got to HSE University–St Petersburg, I saw that there was a debate club, but it was mostly for Russian speakers. There were some speaking clubs too (Talking Crows, for instance), but just for language practice. That gap intrigued me.

Speaking clubs are great for learning languages, but public speaking is an art, a separate discipline—and HSE University didn’t have a club for it. So, I created one—Talent House Speakers HSE SPb. If I want something and it’s not there, I don’t complain—I make it happen. The club’s been doing great so far. Studies and other activities have slowed us down a bit, but we’ll bring it back to life and see how far we can go.

Beyond that, I’ve also been active in football tournaments. I plan to join more clubs, but it depends on how long I stay at HSE University. As for the student council, I was elected as the international student and faculty representative. The election process here is different from Cameroon. Back home, we’d campaign for a week or two and go from one classroom to another classroom to present our ideas. Here, it’s more digital—you submit your project online, people vote, and results come out.

— You’re in your final year now. What can you say about HSE University? What is your advice for future applicants, especially Africans who might be sceptical about coming here?

— One thing you need to know is that despite the challenges, HSE University and Russia feel like home away from home. It’s a conducive environment for international students. Sure, you’ll never be fully comfortable in someone else’s house—that’s a daft idea—but there’ll always be challenges wherever you go. Why do I say this? University isn’t just about studying. Get out there, and join extracurricular events. That’s where you’ll pick up skills, meet people, and free your mind from the stress of academics. It’s a way to express yourself—your feelings, thoughts, and solutions for society.

What have I gained at HSE University? Cross-cultural competence stands out. I’ve had lecturers from the US, a close friend from Nigeria, and a classmate from Indonesia. Every day, I meet people with different mindsets and beliefs. I dive into their perspectives, learning why they think the way they do. I’ve also gained leadership skills. I’ve been invited to speak at events I didn’t even apply for—like the event ‘You Speak St Petersburg’ three weeks ago at the Friendly Library. Someone saw my online activity and thought I’d connect with their audience. They sent me a certificate two days ago. It’s opened doors, helped me network, and boosted my experience.

My advice is to come disciplined, with clear goals. Like they say, don’t jump in the water without a mask—but that mask won’t come easy. You’ll face challenges beyond the language, though Russian is learnable. The weather’s cold for sure, but you just need to wrap up warm. Be intentional, stay focused, and you’ll come out on top.

Text by Akabueze Daniel Onyekachukwu, 3rd-year student of the Bachelor’s programme ‘Political Science and World Politics’