Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –
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Elena Karpenko
Postgraduate Student Day is a special occasion that brings together young researchers for whom science is a conscious professional choice and an important part of their personal journey. At the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, this day is an opportunity to highlight the contribution of postgraduate students to the development of architectural and urban planning science and recognize those who continue the university's finest academic traditions.
One of the representatives of the modern scientific school at SPbGASU is Elena Karpenko, a first-year graduate student in the Department of Urban Planning. She is studying in the specialty 5.6.6 "History of Science and Technology (Architecture)"—a new graduate program for which the university has been accepting applications since 2025. Elena's academic advisor is Mikhail Vilensky, Associate Professor of the Department of Urban Planning.
The topic of the postgraduate student's dissertation is "The Historical Evolution and Prospects for the Development of Urban Theatre Spaces." It reflects the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary architectural scholarship. In her work, Elena Karpenko combines historical and theoretical analysis with an understanding of current urban development processes. "It's important for me not simply to describe objects, but to trace how scientific approaches, concepts, and methods were formed, and how a holistic picture of development was formed based on accumulated knowledge," she notes.
The study places a special emphasis on theatrical spaces as significant elements of the urban environment. The theater is viewed not only as an architectural object but also as a community center, shaping the city's cultural and spatial identity. "Theatre buildings often become important urban nodes, either actively integrating their surroundings into urban life or, conversely, remaining isolated. Understanding these processes allows for a new perspective on the role of the theater in the urban fabric," the graduate student emphasizes.
The relevance of the chosen topic is determined by both the challenges of preserving architectural heritage and the current pace of development of urban agglomerations. Theaters are iconic urban architectural objects, entrenched in collective memory and directly linked to the cultural identity of their territories. At the same time, urban growth requires the thoughtful development of cultural infrastructure, making scientific research in the field of theater spaces particularly significant.
Elena Karpenko, a graduate of the bachelor's and master's programs at SPbGASU, currently works as an assistant in the Department of Urban Planning. She notes that her studies and work at the university shaped her professional view of the city as a system of interconnected processes, and the department's support was a key factor in her choice of academic career. Trust, openness to discussing ideas, and academic mentorship create the conditions for informed and sustainable academic growth.
On Postgraduate Student Day, Elena Karpenko addresses those considering a career in science: "It's important to nurture your interest and yourself, manage your time, and find a balance between your workload and observing the city. Postgraduate study requires effort, but it offers a rare opportunity to deeply understand what's truly important."
Postgraduate Day at SPbGASU is a celebration of scientific continuity, intellectual exploration, and professional development, in which postgraduate students play a key role in shaping the future of architectural and construction science.
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