‘See the World From a New Perspective’: HSE University–St Petersburg Student on Her Exchange Studies in Italy and Academic Mobility Opportunities

Violetta Vishnevskaya, third-year student of the programme 'International Bachelor’s in Business and Economics,' spent the spring semester at the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Read on to find out how the trip helped broaden her horizons and what opportunities the academic mobility programme offers.

Photo courtesy of Violetta Vishnevskaya

— How did you learn about the academic mobility programme?

— I found out about the exchange programme even before my admission to HSE University-St Petersburg—the idea of studying in a different country inspired me from the start. In the second year, I applied to several universities but was not selected. Then, I changed my approach.

— How did you manage to pass the selection for the semester exchange?

— At the beginning of the third year, I decided to focus on one option—the University of Rome Tor Vergata. I studied the statistics from previous years in advance: the number of places, average passing scores, and chances of being enrolled—it helped me make a more informed choice. To increase my chances, I actively engaged in volunteer activities and research work and confirmed my English language proficiency.

— Why did you choose the University of Rome Tor Vergata?

— I considered studying at the University of Milan, but in the end, I opted for Tor Vergata because the courses offered there largely coincided with the HSE curriculum. Besides, since childhood, I have been attracted to Italian culture and the Italian attitude to life: no hurry, sit in a cafe, and just talk. I have been to Italy several times, and studying at the University of Tor Vergata seemed the best choice—it was easier to adapt to a new place this way.

— What courses did you attend there?

 — During the semester, I had five courses: two in management, one in financial analysis, and two in analytics. We did an obligatory group project on financial analysis. The presentations for other courses were not obligatory, but gave extra points, so we decided to do them as well. It was a useful experience of working in an international team.

— What are the differences between studying at Tor Vergata and HSE University–St Petersburg?

— There are some nuances. First of all, double classes lasted for two hours with one break of 10–15 minutes at the professor's discretion. In the beginning, it was unusual because at HSE University, classes are shorter.

Another difference is the grading system. At the University of Tor Vergata, everything depends on a final exam graded on a 30-point scale. Also, in Italy, exams are oral, which almost never happens at HSE University. However, in my courses, the majority of exams were written, and only one was in a hybrid format.

Another feature of the educational system is that students decide for themselves when to sit the exam. They have three attempts. If you fail on the first try or want to improve your grade, you can retake the exam. An interesting fact: we had a chance to add some extra points to the exam grade for projects, mini tests, or other activities.

— What did you like the most at the foreign university?

— During my studies, I liked two courses: 'Big Data Analytics' and 'Business Analytics.' They combined good theory and work with new software. It reminded me of studies at HSE University–St Petersburg with a focus on practical use in your future profession! I also enjoyed the eventful student life. Italians are very open-minded and friendly. The professors welcomed us very warmly, and they spoke highly of St Petersburg. Some of them showed us examples of assignments and explained how to solve them in detail—it was extremely comfortable!

— Why should students take part in the academic mobility programme?

— One of the programme's advantages is flexibility—the credits received at the University of Tor Vergata will be transferred to HSE University. I recommend drawing up an individual plan with courses at the host university to replace HSE courses. 

In addition, staying in a different country helps to overcome the language barrier. Your foreign language proficiency will improve. It became easier for me to understand European accents.

The International Student Mobility Office shared the contacts of former exchange students, and with their help, I managed to find accommodation in Rome. 

— What was your daily routine like in Italy? 

— I lived in a flat with several flatmates not far from the campus. It took me about 20 minutes to get to the university building, and about an hour to get to the centre of Rome. At night, the bus trip back home took much longer.

The prices of products differ, but they are quite similar to those in Russia. I got discount cards from popular supermarkets, and it helped to save money.

In terms of the climate, in winter, it was cold in the flat, but with warmer weather arriving, everything changed. Summer is quite dry. I felt the Italian heat at its full: the temperature reached 35–45 degrees!

— What surprised you the most in Italy?

— First was the Italian temperament—they are very noisy and loud. It struck me that the reality reminded me of Spanish and Italian TV series: vivid emotions, beautiful speech, summer clubs with outdoor terraces, people in elegant clothes—it is the absolute truth. As for something extraordinary, I am used to that in Russia, there are always more girls than boys at school and university. In Italy, it is the opposite, the number of guys is much bigger. Sometimes, there are almost no girls at the events. 

— What would you recommend to those going to Italy?

— Travel to feel the contrasts of Italy. Keep an eye out for cheap tickets, pack your bag, and hit the road. Visit Milan, Venice, Verona, Rome, and Sicily. Add various places to your plan! I recommend mastering some gestures to communicate with the Italians more confidently. It's enough to learn the most common moves, even if you don't know the language. 

Try classic Italian dishes—pasta and pizza, but don't limit yourself to them! If you are in the North of Italy, try risotto. If you're in the South or Sicily, enjoy arancini and seafood.

— What did the exchange give you?

— A trip to Italy is a wonderful opportunity to dive into student life, experience Italian daily life, and learn to appreciate each moment of your life. I made new friends, improved my English skills, and learned to work with European programmes—it will come in handy in future work and professional environments. I am grateful to HSE University–St Petersburg for this experience!

— What would you recommend to future participants of the exchange programme who are going abroad?

— I advise you not to be afraid—everything will happen the way it should. It's important to know at least basic Italian; it will help a lot. Talk to participants from previous years to avoid some mistakes. Travel at your own pace—the main thing is to make the trip interesting and comfortable for you!