Abhishek Shreesam, EU4M Master in Mechatronics student 2014
ABHISHEK SHREESAM
Definitely my experience in Russia exceeded my expectations that I had before coming here. When I decided to come to Russia, I knew nothing much about this country and its people. First, I searched through the internet, most the information about Russia is like misleading in nature. So I decided to ask my friends and relatives who have been to Russia. Most of them have positive view about Russia. Even my Mother suggested me to go and find myself which is perhaps the best way to experience any country and its people’s life. During my stay here, I started realizing that Russia is nothing like what I had been told, seen on television, or heard on the news. At first I thought Russian people are reserved, unsociable and unfriendly. But when I meet and get to know Russian people closer, they are much more open, friendly and genuine than they may seem on the surface.
Russia had been an interesting place to discover many things that I ever done in my life and indeed it is truly a “Winter Wonderland”. For those of you who don't know to understand why I say this because In India, the place I belong to, minimum temperature was never below +10 degree but here coldest day during last winter was -30°C. This is ridiculous. During last winter I learned what "cold" was. I came here during the winter which was awesome experience for me. But I enjoyed many adventures like mountain skiing, ice skating, ice fishing etc.
The most memorable events were the cooking contest in the dormitory and my stay at Rubskoye Lake camp. Indian food is known for its taste and spiciness. I’ve made two Indian dishes, one is Egg curry and Mumbai (Name of the city in India) Masala Rice. There were five judges during the contest. They tasted it and found it spicy. All the judges were waving their hand to their mouth. When I asked them about their feedback they said to give them time to cool down their mouth. I thought Indian food is not suited for Russians. But the strangest thing is I found that nothing left in my pan as all the students finished eating all the Indian food. Two of the students came to me and asked me how to cook it. That was really strange for me.
Rubskoye Lake camp was another memorable event for me. Unlike Indian camp, where we have hectic activities or sports and get little time to relax, Rubskoye Lake camp was well balanced. Sports, parties, disco everything was good.
Unlike my university in India, I found ISPU very different and interesting. The university is good in Infrastructure.
Professors are very supportive and well informed. During my introductory classes, many professors took some time to ask about my past experience and asked me what my expectations from them. They were well prepared for the class and used to solve my doubts quickly. I take this opportunity to thank all the professors for their incredible support.
From my study here, I’ve directed my career in a right path. Yes, the Mechatronic Engineering is difficult but very interesting. I’ve improved in key areas but need to work very hard in coming months. Russian education is globally respected and world-renowned. Higher education in Russia offers an opportunity for growth and development that only a few other experiences can provide so intensely. Russia is indeed a unique country of great opportunities. I would definitely recommend it to my friends.
I would like to thank not only professors but all the friends for getting me through this journey. I will come to Ivanovo to meet my friends and to visit the university!