Sechang Kwon, Republic of Korea 

I graduated from the Hankuk University of Foreign Studies with a major in Linguistics and Cognitive Science & Russian Language. While studying there, I came to HSE University in 2022 for a semester.

I had a great experience at HSE University during my course as an exchange student, and I’m planning to pursue a master’s degree here in the Faculty of Economic Sciences.

I am interested in resources such as aluminium, nickel, copper, and coal, which are abundant in the Russian Federation and China. Russia is a major resource power, while the Republic of Korea is a country with limited resources, 80% of which is dependent on imports of key minerals. However, Korea has advanced technologies that can support the development of Russian industry. With mutual cooperation between Russia and the Republic of Korea, a positive outcome is certainly expected for both parties.

My plan is to contribute to the development of both countries by studying management in Russia. That’s the reason I chose world economics as my major.

I have taken a few internships here in Russia and didn't have much trouble communicating in Russian. However, I chose the International Prep Year to practice Russian and study economics in advance.

My first impression of Moscow was that the buildings were in good harmony even though they were old and created a classical atmosphere. Words cannot describe the emotion of being in a place that is so old-fashioned. I love my country, but Korea has a more modern feeling. Tall buildings often overwhelm people rather than give a sense of elegance. Compared to that, I prefer Moscow because it is calmer and more beautiful.

To me, Moscow feels like a friendly second home.

About HSE university, to tell the truth, it was hard to find the buildings, and I often get lost on the way to the class (sorry, teachers!). I was most impressed by the fact that various races were studying together. It is nice to see everyone peacefully interacting without a concern for skin colour, hair colour, and culture. Regarding the Prep Year, learning social studies and mathematics in different languages is an interesting experience.