Sajjad Asghari, Iran

I am currently doing a one-year language course, after which I will pursue my master's degree in psychology.

Before studying at HSE University, I was interested in the Russian language and was looking for an opportunity to study in Russia.

When I heard from the embassy that there was a scholarship available and that HSE University was part of it, I was happy because I had seen videos about this great university and its ranking in Iran.

Therefore, I saw it as the best opportunity to be part of the HSE family.

The registration process was good for us because the embassy representative provided information in Persian. We didn’t have an entrance exam, only an interview. The registration was very well organised, but it was a long process.

Regarding the classes, all of them are language courses. We have classes five days a week, and they are very informative and good. Our teachers, Anastasia and Maria, are excellent.

It’s very good to communicate with students from other countries. You learn many things. And HSE always helps us feel part of this big family through events and lectures.

I had a buddy, but they didn’t help much. I think it would be better if each buddy was from the opposite country to have a better connection. But I think it would be great to expand this system because the initial period can be very stressful.

I live in Moscow, in Dorm 1. Moscow a very beautiful city with beautiful, colourful buildings. I’ve been to Red Square twice; it’s very grand and beautiful, at both day and night. I plan to visit the Moscow Zoo as well.

After my language course, I plan to continue my studies in the Faculty of Psychology, majoring in Personality Psychology. I am very excited for that day.

I feel very good about studying in this country and at this university, but I’m a bit scared of the language. However, I always remind myself that this was my dream, and I need to try because nothing comes without effort.

In my free time, I practice learning the piano in the dormitory, and I’d love to continue playing hockey in the future because it has always been my dream.