What It Is Like To Be An International Student At HSE

Meet Huang Bin - an international student of Media Comminications Program.

Today we spoke with Huang Bin. She shared her views on how it is to live and study in Russia.

Hello, Huang Bin! Where are you from?

Hello, I am from China.

What is your major?

My major is Media Communications.

How did you find out about HSE and the program you have chosen?

I saw some information about the university on the website and realized that I just wanted to study there. I have studied the Russian language for a year in HSE, I got used to it. And I am very interested in the news media.

Do you live in a dormitory or elsewhere? If you live in a dormitory do you like it? Are there any difficulties?

I live in the dormitory but do not like it very much. I think the situation is not bad, but my roommate has different ideas and habits. Unfortunately, it is difficult to change dormitories.

Do you like Moscow? Is there a place in Moscow that you like most of all?

Yes, I like Moscow, I love all the buildings here.

Was it hard to adapt to Russian culture and life here?

It was hard at first and I it took me much time to get used to everything here.

Do you think life and study in Russia differ from China?

It is very cold here. People get along in different ways.

Is it difficult to communicate in English? Do you have enough English skills to communicate and to study? Do you have to fully study in Russian or some classes are conducted in English?

I usually use the Russian language; I think it is quite enough.

Do you like Russian food?

I like it to some extent. 

I think «blini» is the tastiest Russian dish. Вкусные.

Do you like studying at the HSE?

Yeah, I like it, so I do not regret about my choice.

What is the most difficult thing in the life of a foreign student?

I think sometimes it is very difficult for me to fully understand the content of the classes and some personal assignments, as well as to get along with roommates.

Despite all the difficulties, this strong girl fearlessly came to Russia and trusted HSE. And as you can see, she does not regret it! We wish Huang Bin good luck in life and studies!

Text by
Maryana Selezneva