‘I See Numerous Opportunities That HSE University Can Leverage in Indonesia’
In November 2023, a representative office of HSE University opened in Indonesia. This new educational hub is designed to help students from the Asia-Pacific (APAC) who are planning to study in Russia. The representative office is based at Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS) in the city of Surabaya. The office is headed by Bima Yatna Anugerah Ramadhani, HSE University-St Petersburg graduate of the Master’s programme ‘Management and Analytics for Business’. In the interview, Bima Ramadhani reflects on his studies at HSE campus in St Petersburg, talks about his work at the State University of Surabaya and elaborates on the further activities of the HSE University representative office.
— Could you tell us about your educational path before our university and why you chose HSE University in particular? How did your family react to the news that you were going to the faraway city of St Petersburg?
— Before enrolling at HSE University-St Petersburg, I completed my bachelor’s studies at Rajamangala University of Technology Krungthep in Thailand, majoring in international business management. My decision to choose HSE University was driven by my strong desire to experience Russia firsthand. I was drawn to the country's rich culture and history and even found myself humming Soviet-era songs. Despite my initial uncertainty about which Russian universities excelled in economics and business, a thorough search led me to discover that HSE University was highly regarded in these fields and boasted a world-class reputation. Compared to other universities in Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan, HSE University stood out to me due to its clear and straightforward application process. I was particularly attracted to the diverse range of cutting-edge majors offered there, such as my chosen programme—‘Management and Analytics for Business’. This programme, which is uncommon in Asian countries but prevalent in Western and European nations, intrigued me with its promising career prospects and strong academic profile. I decided to apply to the HSE campus in St Petersburg because I found out that St Petersburg is considered the cultural capital of Russia and is not overly crowded. Additionally, the cost of living in St Petersburg seemed reasonable to me.
Although my family initially expressed concerns about my decision to study in Russia due to the distance, I reassured them by highlighting my independence and past experience of living away from home during my time in Thailand. Through determination and self-reliance, I successfully navigated challenges during my studies in Thailand, ultimately earning my degree.
— What was your student life like?
— My student life was both enjoyable and challenging because I was driven by ambition. I didn't mind getting things wrong, instead, I saw it as a chance to learn something new. Recognising my mistakes was crucial, as they are a natural part of life and learning. Each mistake allowed me to understand what went amiss, why it happened, and how I could do better in the future. In essence, mistakes were valuable teachers.
— Was the admissions process hard for you? Could you share your experience of entrance exams and the process in general?
— I find that the application process at HSE University is not as challenging compared to universities abroad like those in Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore. At HSE University, I only had to use one website portal for both application and scholarships. The required documents, such as diplomas, transcripts, passports, recommendation letters, and motivational letters, are also relatively easy to obtain. Once I collected these documents, I received information about the interview within a week. The interview itself was not difficult, as the interviewer, who is usually a programme representative, simply asked about various aspects of ourselves and some information about the chosen field of study.
— How is the educational system in Russia and Thailand as well as Asian countries in general different? What peculiarities did you notice?
— The educational systems in Russia and Thailand, as well as in Asia in general, exhibit differences in courses, teaching styles, and structure. Russian education tends to be more structured and academically focused, with an emphasis on theoretical knowledge and independent study. Teaching styles often involve traditional lectures and discussions. In contrast, Thailand and other Asian countries may prioritise rote memorisation and examination-based learning with variations in curriculum and teaching methods across regions. Additionally, while Russia follows a centralised education system with standardised curricula, Thailand and other Asian countries may have more regional variations. One peculiarity in Russia is the early emphasis on specialised education, while Thailand and other Asian countries may integrate extracurricular activities and moral education into their curricula. Despite these differences, both regions prioritise education as a means of societal advancement, shaped by cultural, historical, and socioeconomic factors. One of the peculiarities at HSE University in particular is that studies here are practice-oriented. Students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experience. Curricular of all educational programmes include projects and internships at university partner-companies.
— Let’s talk about your educational programme. Why did you choose it? What useful skills did you gain during your studies? Why is your programme relevant to the modern world?
— I chose the Master's programme ‘Management and Analytics for Business’ (currently, prospective students can apply for the Master’s programme ‘Data Analytics for Business and Economics’—ed. note) at HSE University for its renowned academic reputation and its focus on both management principles and advanced analytics, recognising the pivotal role of data analysis in contemporary business. Throughout my studies, I gained invaluable skills encompassing data analysis, statistical modelling, business strategy, programming, and critical thinking. These proficiencies have equipped me to derive meaningful insights from complex datasets, make data-driven decisions, and tackle intricate business challenges creatively. In today's competitive and data-centric business landscape, the programme's emphasis on merging management with analytics is profoundly relevant. Organisations increasingly rely on data to optimise operations, understand customer behaviour, and identify market trends, turning graduates into experts at management and analytics highly sought after across industries.
My education in the Master's programme ‘Management and Analytics for Business’ has been instrumental in preparing me for employment as a lecturer in the Bachelor’s programme in Management. Firstly, the programme provided me with a solid foundation in both management principles and advanced analytics, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach a wide range of topics related to management. Additionally, the programme emphasized critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential for delivering engaging lectures and effectively conveying complex concepts to students. Furthermore, my education equipped me with practical experience through case studies, projects, and internships, allowing me to bring real-world examples and applications into the classroom, enhancing the learning experience for students. Overall, my education has not only enhanced my employability but has also provided me with the tools and confidence to excel in my role as a lecturer in the field of management.
The knowledge and skills gained during my time in the Master's programme at HSE University-St Petersburg have significantly contributed to my career advancement. Firstly, the programme provided me with a comprehensive understanding of management principles and advanced analytics techniques, which have been directly applicable to my professional roles. Whether it's analysing complex business problems, developing strategic plans, or leveraging data for decision-making, the expertise gained from the programme has been invaluable. Additionally, the emphasis on practical application through case studies, projects, and internships equipped me with hands-on experience, allowing me to seamlessly transition into various roles within the business world. Moreover, the reputation of HSE University-St Petersburg has opened doors and enhanced my credibility in the workplace, facilitating networking opportunities and career growth.
— Now, you work as a professor at the State University of Surabaya. What courses do you deliver? Are they related to Russia and HSE University in any way? Do students take an interest in your experience in studying and living in St Petersburg?
— I teach many courses such as human resource planning, global human resources, industrial psychology and many others. The core emphasis of my teaching lies within the realm of human resources, a focus rooted in my academic background specialising in people analytics during my time at HSE University-St Petersburg. My students frequently express a profound curiosity regarding my firsthand experiences in Russia, often inquiring about life in the country and the academic environment at HSE University. Many among them are particularly drawn to the prospect of pursuing higher education in Russia, fascinated by its esteemed academic offerings, reasonable living expenses, and streamlined enrollment procedures.
— Recently, you have been appointed as a director of HSE University representative office in Indonesia, Surabaya. What will the further work of the educational hub be like, in your opinion? What goals is the representative office to reach this year or, for instance, in the next five years?
— As the newly appointed director of the HSE University representative office in Indonesia, Surabaya, I envision an ambitious and strategic approach to advancing the goals of this educational centre. In the near term, our primary focus is on establishing a strong presence in the local education landscape and fostering partnerships with academic institutions, government entities, and industry stakeholders. Additionally, I plan to position HSE University as a hub for self-development for students and educational institutions in Indonesia. I see numerous opportunities that HSE University can leverage in Indonesia, such as providing training facilities for students and lecturers, hosting international conferences, offering guest lecturers or speakers at international conferences, and much more.
In the next five years, I foresee that many universities and educational institutions in Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific region will increasingly reach out to HSE University for research and collaborative programmes. Achieving this won't be easy. It will require various efforts such as participating in educational events, seminars, and conferences, attending educational fairs across the Asia-Pacific region, and fostering strong relationships between different educational institutions.
My immediate plan involves participating in educational fairs in major cities in Indonesia and promoting HSE University to high schools and universities with the potential to send students for overseas studies. Additionally, I intend to seek out universities that host international conferences so that HSE University can participate as a guest lecturer or participant.
— How does the representative office help students from Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific region right now? Could you describe the perfect direction of work with Indonesian applicants and students?
— The representative office plays a crucial role in assisting students from Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific region by providing essential support and guidance throughout their academic journey. Currently, the office offers various services, including consultation sessions to help prospective students navigate through the admission process, providing information about available programmes, scholarships, and facilitating cultural integration. Moreover, the office acts as a liaison between students and the university, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly to ensure a smooth transition into academic life at HSE.
Looking towards the ideal direction of work with Indonesian applicants or students, the representative office aims to enhance its outreach efforts by actively engaging with educational institutions, attending relevant events, and establishing partnerships with local organisations to promote HSE's academic offerings effectively. Additionally, personalised assistance tailored to the needs and aspirations of Indonesian students, such as language support, pre-departure orientation programmes, and networking opportunities with alumni, can significantly contribute to their success and satisfaction throughout their studies at HSE University.
— What was your life in Russia like? What new things did you learn about Russia and its culture while living here?
— Living in Russia has been a fulfilling experience for me, as it offers a comfortable and enriching lifestyle. From efficient transportation systems to abundant recreational areas and excellent study facilities, Russia has provided me with a well-rounded environment. While living here, I've had the opportunity to immerse myself in Russian culture and learn about its unique traditions, customs, and history. I've discovered the warmth and hospitality of the Russian people, the richness of its cultural heritage, and the diversity of its landscapes. Moreover, being in Russia has exposed me to new perspectives, broadened my understanding of global affairs, and enriched my intercultural competence. Overall, my time in Russia has been characterised by personal growth, memorable experiences, and a deep appreciation for the country's offerings and its people.
— As an HSE graduate, what pieces of advice can you give to our international students and applicants?
— As an HSE graduate, I would advise international students and applicants to approach their journey with thorough research, proactive planning, and an open mind. Firstly, it's crucial to thoroughly research HSE University, its programmes, faculty, and the city it's located in to ensure it aligns with your academic and personal goals. Secondly, start your application process early to have enough time to gather the necessary documents and meet deadlines. Additionally, focus on improving your Russian language skills if you're not a native speaker, as proficiency in Russian can enhance your experience and opportunities at HSE University.
Embrace cultural diversity and engage with the community through extracurricular activities and academic events offered by the university. Seek academic support when needed and explore the city to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. By being proactive, adaptable, and open to new experiences, you can make the most of your time at HSE University. Moreover, reaching out to students or former students who have direct experience studying in Russia can provide valuable insight and advice. In general, carefully evaluating your personal goals, career aspirations, and potential benefits of studying abroad can help you make your decision. I am sure that the choice of HSE University-St Petersburg will become the best choice in your life.
Рамадхани Бима Ятна Анугерах