Mary Sarfo, Ghana

I got to know about HSE University through some research I was doing on the internet to find a quality and affordable international school to further my education considering my interest in cultural diversity. After thorough reading and consultations with some friends, looking at the opportunities that abound in associating with the school (including its many scholarship opportunities), I finally decided to settle on HSE.

The promptness to responding to enquiries and the clarity of the information on the university website made for smooth sailing through my processes in applying for the school.

As a scholarship applicant, I did not have to write an entrance exam since my scheduled interview with the team went well. I commend the team for their patience and the calm atmosphere they created during my online interview.

In September, I arrived safely in Moscow to commence my journey with this wonderful family. Regardless of the cultural differences, I felt like I belonged. On October 2, my first class began and to be frank, I enjoyed my first day. I am currently a preparatory year student, which prepares me for the journey ahead through language studies. In 2025, I will begin my main course, which is International Relations.

Fortunately for me, I can boldly say I have the best teachers for my class and I am always thankful for them.

They are dedicated and make learning the language look easy, which really changed my narrative on stereotypes I previously had.

In Moscow, I live in HSE Dorm 10, another interesting place to be. At the hostel, we meet and greet each other in our corridors and I am just so happy to be amongst them. I have also taken it upon myself to visit some fascinating places in Moscow.

I like the serenity and proximity to transportation and amenities as a foreign student. I have had a fairy ride at the VDNH exhibition centre, visited Red Square, walked on the hanging bridge, and felt the breeze at night by the Moscow River among other fun activities at the Wonderland at Technopark.

Fortunately for me, after the Prep Year, I have the opportunity to begin my main master's programme with this same wonderful family at HSE, and I would be glad to continue my PHD here as well.

I love to see new places, travel around, try new foods, and meet new people—and so far, I am having fun in this aspect. There isn't a dull moment, but unfortunately, I sometimes feel my passion for swimming and athletics may soon die, since I have not yet discovered how to reactivate these hobbies.

I am still wishing to be drawn to some other sporting activities and I would not mind joining the hiking team soon.

My relatives are excited to see my growth. I definitely miss homemade dishes prepared by my mom and my ability to go swimming and take long drives just to cool off anytime I felt like it.

Choosing to be part of the HSE family and Moscow as a whole is never a decision to regret. I highly commend the whole team of the school and beyond and would recommend it to everyone interested just as I was and still am. I have a sense of belonging away from home and it is my prayer that my purpose for which I came will be accomplished and exceeded.

Thank you, HSE University. You are the best!