‘Russians Have a Very Rich Culture and History’
On October 10, 2025, the central atrium of HSE University’s Pokrovka campus hosted the Day of Russian Culture. Students of HSE International Prep Year programme had the opportunity to explore Russia’s traditions, art, and customs, as well as sample national delicacies. As always, the event was organised by HSE University’s Support and Career Centre for International Students and Alumni.
The programme included engaging workshops on traditional Russian crafts and musical instruments. Participants who successfully completed quizzes on Russian culture were treated to traditional refreshments—tea and pies.
Mehran Ullah, who came from Pakistan, says he is fond of Russian culture. ‘I really enjoyed today’s celebration. I am enrolled in HSE University’s Preparatory Year for international students and plan to continue on to a master’s degree afterwards. I like Russia and HSE University—Russians have a very rich culture and history, and it has not been difficult for me to adapt here,’ he said.
Strahinja Radojcin from Serbia also came for the Preparatory Year to learn Russian. ‘For Slavic people, Russian is not that difficult, so I enjoy learning it, as well as studying Russian culture,’ he said. ‘I like HSE—it is one of the most modern universities, with excellent buildings, professors, networking opportunities, and study programmes. There are also many international students here, including from Slavic countries, which makes it easier to adapt.’
Maxwell Alanyoh from Ghana has been in Russia for three years and is now also completing his Preparatory Year at HSE. ‘For me, Russian is a bit difficult, but I really like it. I first started learning about Russian culture back in primary school—even then, I began to like your country and realised that one day I would come here. So, I am happy to be here now,’ the student shared.
The Day of Russian Culture is not only interesting and useful for international guests—Russian students also enjoy taking part in it. For instance, Natalia Chichenkova, a first-year master’s student on the Russian as a Foreign Language programme, had a go at playing traditional musical instruments—wooden spoons and rattles. ‘I also made Russian dressed herring—I found all the necessary ingredients and put the dish together. And I watched someone play a real domra, a Russian musical instrument,’ Natalia shared. Her classmate, Valeria Melkozerova, also visited the atrium that day to practise her spoken English and meet new people. ‘I have already chatted in English with several international students. It was interesting to learn where they are from—they are very enthusiastic and eager to learn Russian. It is wonderful when everyone gathers in one place, unites, and can simply look at one another and realise how similar we all are. It brings people closer together,’ she believes.
‘The Day of Russian Culture marks the conclusion of adaptation activities for first-year international students, which are organised annually by the Department for Internationalisation,’ explained Valeriia Iuzyshina, Project Team Manager at the HSE Support and Career Centre for International Students and Alumni. ‘Just like the orientation session, the festival focuses on helping students overcome culture shock and fostering a friendly international community.’
Such events help international students adapt more quickly, build social connections, and feel part of a shared educational environment. ‘They promote intercultural communication, stimulate interest in learning Russian, and strengthen international cooperation in education,’ Valeriia Iuzyshina concluded.
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