Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Bui Nguyen Bao Ngoc, a Vietnamese student at SPbPU's Preparatory Department, is just beginning her journey at the Polytechnic University. She has already overcome thousands of kilometers and a language barrier. She came to St. Petersburg not just to enroll in the university, but to continue a family tradition.
— Ngok, why did you choose Russia and the Polytechnic University? Did the university live up to your expectations?
"I chose Russia because my father studied here before. Dad got in many years ago, and now it's my turn. And I'm glad I made the right choice. Polytechnic University is a serious place. The studies are challenging, but I see the results. The program is exactly what I hoped for—deep and genuine."
— If you had the opportunity to send a message to your past self, what is the main piece of advice you would give?
"I would tell myself, 'Ngok, you need to practice Russian more and not be afraid of mistakes.' Because only through practice and overcoming fear can you learn the language well enough to study in your field."
— What study habit has been the most useful for you during this time?
"The most useful habit is to learn vocabulary and review grammar every day. Without daily practice, the language is forgotten very quickly."
— What helps you in your studies now, and what, on the contrary, hinders you?
"A good schedule really helps me. When everything is organized, you have time to study and relax. The language barrier is a real hurdle, of course. Sometimes I know what I want to say, but I can't find the right words."
— Speaking of the language barrier, was there ever any funny or awkward situation related to not knowing Russian?
— Oh, yes! When I was just starting to learn Russian, I once said to the teacher, "Goodbye" instead of "Hello." It was really awkward, but now I remember it with a smile.
— What are your impressions of the teachers?
"The teachers here are kind and good. They really want to help us. I think adapting would have been much more difficult without their support."
— Besides studying, did you manage to make friends in the new city?
— Of course! I've made a lot of new friends. It's an amazing feeling—I now have friends from all over the world. We communicate in Russian, and it helps us all progress.
— What are your plans for the future?
I plan to complete the preparatory course and enroll in a master's program at the Polytechnic University's Faculty of Law. I want to become a good specialist.
— Ngok, finish the sentence: “Studying at the Polytechnic is like…”
— Studying here is a challenge, but very interesting. I like it.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.