Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Nguyen Thanh Cha, an energetic SPbPU student from Vietnam studying under the Russian government's quota for Vietnamese citizens, shared how she decided to come to Russia, the challenges she faced during her move, and why she enrolled at the Polytechnic University.
— Nguyen Thanh Cha, let's start from the very beginning. How did you end up in St. Petersburg?
It all started in Hanoi, at the Hanoi-Amsterdam High School for the Gifted. I studied English and Russian extensively. Russian culture fascinated me, and when my teacher told me about the competition for a Russian state scholarship, I decided, "This is my chance." The competition was rigorous—three rounds at the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Hanoi. When I found out I'd won, I couldn't believe it! My dream of studying abroad had come true, especially with such support.
— Why did you choose Polytechnic University and the Advertising and PR program?
"I studied reviews and photos. I was captivated by the modern campus, the vast grounds, and the many international students. And majoring in Advertising and Public Relations at the Humanities Institute was a conscious choice. Even in school, I was a media lover: I wrote articles, managed social media, and even worked as a freelance photographer. I love creating meaning and influencing perceptions.
— What were your first impressions of Russia and the Polytechnic University?
"My first impression when I left the airport was cold! But St. Petersburg immediately captivated me—so majestic! I got lost at the Polytechnic on my first day. The grounds are like a small city: spacious, green, with seven cafeterias. A student's paradise!"
Moving to another country is always a challenge. What practical difficulties did you encounter initially?
— Documents! So many papers, certificates, registrations… My head was spinning. It's good that now a foreign student at the Polytechnic University can get everything done in one place— at the Unified Service Center for Foreign Citizens (USSCF)And, of course, the language barrier. Although I studied Russian in school, I only became fluent after three months of preparatory courses. Thanks to the patient teachers!
— Speaking of the teachers, what impression did you get of them?
"I believe that love for a subject is born from the teacher. I was lucky at the Polytechnic University! The teachers here don't just impart theory—they spark interest. During lectures on the fundamentals of advertising, psychology, or visual communications, you feel the world of this profession unfold. I'm incredibly grateful to all my teachers, who inspire me to overcome any challenge."
— Tell us about your favorite places in St. Petersburg.
"I'm a museum buff! The Hermitage, the Russian Museum, the Kunstkamera… They're treasure troves! But most of all, I love just strolling. Strolling along the embankment, getting lost in the courtyards, feeling the breath of history. I recommend it to everyone—just go and see! St. Petersburg won't disappoint."
— What surprised you most about Russia after Vietnam?
— Besides the cold? The food! We have completely different tastes, spices, cooking methods. It was unusual at first, but now I love borscht and syrniki! And then there's the scale. The open spaces, the wide avenues, the high ceilings in the buildings. It's impressive.
— What are your plans for the future?
"The most important thing now is to successfully complete my bachelor's degree. And then—master's! I want to deepen my knowledge. Perhaps here at the Polytechnic, perhaps through an exchange. I have two whole years ahead of me, so I have plenty of time! And I also dream of seeing more of Russia: I've already been to Murmansk and Sortavala, and Kazan and the Golden Ring are on my list."
— Your advice to those thinking about studying in Russia?
"Don't be afraid! Yes, it will be cold, and the language and paperwork will be challenging. But it's definitely worth it. You'll get a quality education, a unique experience living in an amazing country, and meet friends from all over the world. Russia teaches resilience and opens hearts. The main thing is to take the first step, like I did!"
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