Studying abroad is not an easy thing. There is a big difference between a couple of weeks on vacation abroad and a long stay in a foreign country. We asked our students to tell their stories about their study at the Preparatory Course (the Preparatory Course prepares international students for a degree program within one year, it helps to ensure that they can complete their future studies successfully and without delay; as the language of instruction at USTU is Russian only, so the main goal of the course is to teach international students speak, read, write and understand the Russian language).

Aanuoluwa Rebecca Alaba, Nigeria

When Rebecca graduated from high school, she knew for sure that she wanted to see the world, meet new people and the culture of other countries. Thanks to the recommendations, she found the information for the international students about studying at USTU. The support of her mom helped Rebecca in her decision.

Having arrived in Moscow, Rebecca was shocked by the huge number of people in the capital. Many of those whom she addressed simply did not know what Ukhta is and where it is situated. All the same, she met a kind stranger who helped her with all organizational issues.

New difficulties appeared in Ukhta. One of the most unpleasant problems was getting used to local food, still she did not like borsch (traditional Russian soup). Weather - cold and lack of sun - also depressed the southern guest. But the most difficult problem was parting with the family: she felt especially alone on holidays, which were fun and noisy at home.

Despite all the difficulties, thanks to the support of the family and her own determination, Rebecca can be proud of the successful completion of the preparatory department and a good mark for the Russian exam. She notes that the past year taught her to be more open and friendly.

Rebecca speaks warmly about her Russian language teacher Nadezhda Svirchevskaya, noting that the teacher’s humor, her patience and her desire to make the Russian language understandable, helped a lot in learning.

Now a graduate, Rebecca is ready to give advice to future applicants:

"Meet different people"
"Communicate more"
"Attend classes no matter what happens"
"Bring as many warm clothes with you as possible!"
What movie to watch in a cold evening: « Jumping the Broom», 2011.

What book to read: «No Excuses! The Power of Self-Discipline», Brian Tracy.

You only make it when nobody send you for foreign land