Chasing Dreams Abroad: Adapting and Growth at HSE

Alina’s experience at HSE shows how moving abroad can spark growth and opportunity.

The Higher School of Economics (HSE) in Moscow is one of Russia’s most international universities, attracting students from dozens of countries. This diversity creates a unique environment where students are exposed to different perspectives, cultures, and ideas. International students face a range of challenges: adapting to a new education system, navigating cultural differences, adjusting to a faster-paced city life, and sometimes overcoming language nuances. At the same time, studying in such a multicultural community provides incredible opportunities for networking, professional growth, and personal development.

For many students, moving to a new country is more than just an academic decision—it is a life-changing experience that shapes their worldview, independence, and resilience. The city itself plays a major role in this transformation. Moscow, with its vibrant streets, cultural landmarks, and endless opportunities, challenges students to explore and engage with the world in ways they never imagined. Navigating such a city requires curiosity, courage, and adaptability—qualities that many international students discover within themselves over time. For students like Alina, every new experience, from navigating metro lines to discovering hidden cafés, became a stepping stone in building confidence and independence.

Among these students is Alina Anisimova from Kazakhstan. After graduating from high school, she moved to Moscow and enrolled in the first year at HSE. I found her story of moving and adapting to a new country incredibly inspiring, so I decided to learn more about her experiences and impressions.

Let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us about yourself and what your life in Kazakhstan was like before moving? Where did you study, what were your dreams, and how did you imagine your future at that time?

My name is Alina. I studied in a mathematics-focused high school, but I realized that I wanted to pursue something more creative yet analytical. That is why I chose the major “Advertising and Public Relations.”

When did you first consider applying to a university outside Kazakhstan, and why did you decide on Russia and HSE in particular?

I had visited Moscow many times before moving and saw it as a city full of opportunities. It is much larger than my hometown, and I was curious to explore new places. HSE had a strong reputation—many people in my circle wanted to get in. That motivated me to try as well: I thought, “Why not give it a shot?” And it worked.

How was the application process for HSE as an international student? Did you face any difficulties or surprises?

I applied using all available options: Rossotrudnichestvo programs, olympiads, and internal exams. In the end, I became a participant in the International Youth Olympiad (MOY) in journalism and passed the internal admission exams for Advertising and Public Relations. The hardest part was juggling all these applications at once while still attending school. It was exhausting, but the strategy worked and I got accepted.

Do you remember the moment you moved? What were your feelings leaving Kazakhstan, and what was the most difficult part of the decision?

At the moment of moving, it was hard to realize that it would be permanent. During the first few months, I felt more like I was on a vacation in another country. Everything was new and exciting: a new peer group, new places. That curiosity helped me stay positive and adapt quickly.

How were your first months in Russia and at HSE? What was the most challenging part of adaptation—in studies, daily life, or social interactions?

Adapting to the university system was smooth because schools in my city had a similar structure: a 10-point grading system and four academic modules. Socially, there were no major difficulties, just the usual process of figuring out who shared your interests and how to work effectively in project teams. It took about three months to feel fully comfortable.

Did you experience any culture shock, despite the apparent closeness of the countries and languages? In what ways did you notice differences?

The biggest difference was the pace of life. In Moscow, everyone moves very fast—it’s true! Overall, though, I didn’t experience significant culture shock.

How do you perceive studying at HSE today? How is it different from what you were used to before, and what aspects do you particularly appreciate?

I really appreciate the HSE system: clear deadlines, four exam sessions per year, and the opportunity to choose courses and minors. This structure allows a balance between focused studying and personal time.

How have your relationships with classmates and professors developed? Did you ever feel like an outsider, or did you quickly feel part of the university community?

I never felt like an outsider. My classmates were curious about Kazakhstan, and many expressed a desire to visit. I felt part of the community quickly by participating in student organizations, university events, volunteering, and project fairs.

Has your perception of yourself changed after moving and starting university abroad? What new qualities have you discovered in yourself?

I’ve become more confident in public speaking, quicker at managing team projects, and more skilled at building rapport with new people. Moving showed me that effort and ambition matter more than origin.

How has moving affected your professional plans and vision for the future?

I’ve discovered many professional growth opportunities. Moscow has shown me that with determination, you can work where you want, regardless of the size or type of organization.

Are there things you miss about Kazakhstan, and what do you particularly value in life in Russia?

I miss my family, friends, national cuisine, and traditions, especially holidays that bring people together. I value Russia for the new experiences, personal growth, and opportunities it offers.

Comparing your expectations before moving and your experience now, what surprised you the most?

I was most surprised by the networking opportunities. In a big city, you can meet familiar people in the most unexpected places, and most people are open to connections, especially if you share common interests.

What stereotypes, either external or internal, did you encounter after moving, and how do you view them now?

One stereotype is that adaptation takes about a year. In reality, it continues throughout the entire study period, especially when joining new groups in the third year.

What advice would you give to students from Kazakhstan and other countries who are considering applying to HSE and moving to Russia but are hesitant?

Give yourself time to adjust. Adaptation is part of the journey; it can be challenging but also fascinating. Always try, because only by attempting can you find out whether your dreams are achievable.

Finally, if you had to describe your move and study at HSE in one paragraph, what would be the most important point?

The most important thing is the opportunity to study and grow in a new environment, to discover new aspects of yourself, and to find opportunities you could not have imagined before.

Alina’s story shows that moving to another country and studying at a new university is not just a challenge, but a tremendous opportunity. It broadens horizons, develops independence and confidence, and helps build both professional and personal connections. Her journey also demonstrates how embracing new environments can lead to unexpected discoveries—not just academically, but socially and personally. By engaging with different cultures, exploring Moscow, and participating actively in university life, Alina turned potential uncertainty into a period of growth, curiosity, and achievement.

For students considering studying abroad, Alina’s experience is a vivid reminder that every small effort—making new friends, attending events, exploring the city—contributes to an invaluable journey of self-discovery and success. Adaptation is a gradual process, and every small success along the way makes the experience invaluable. Alina proves that determination, persistence, and willingness to embrace new experiences can open doors you never thought possible, and that moving abroad is as much a journey of self-discovery as it is an academic pursuit.

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Valeriia Shiryaeva and Alina Anisimova