Michael Dzodzoe, Ghana

I got my bachelor’s degree in graphic design 14 years ago from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). I applied to HSE University, choosing a Russian-taught master’s programme in graphic design.

My first impressions of Moscow are that the metro system is very complex and advanced. Since I’m a designer, I like the way the transportation system is structured; it complies with very high standards. Generally, I like HSE University a lot.

I like the way Russian people are always on time, and the system works well

I came to Russia two weeks ago and started studying on the HSE Preparatory Year programme right away. I like my teacher at HSE University and the way she teaches the language. I love Russian language and would like to speak like a native Russian. I think it is an easy language and I don’t have any problems with it. I think that a great way to learn a language is to learn songs and rhymes, because this way you memorise words and phrases. I learned the song Blue Railway Wagon [from the Soviet cartoon Cheburashka] on my own.

I enjoyed today’s speaking club a lot. It’s an informal way of getting to know everybody and interacting with each other

I now know other language learners on the HSE Prep Year. I believe it’s very useful for language studies and I’ll certainly be attending such events in the future.