Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Every ecologist has their own path, their own orbit, their own mission. Some build careers at major corporations, some make scientific breakthroughs, others educate, inspire, and change consciousness through sports, culture, or social activism. But they all share one thing: a commitment to a sustainable future.
Students and graduates of the RUDN University Institute of Ecology don't just study nature—they shape a sustainable future, already becoming recognized professionals and thought leaders. Their unique and vibrant trajectories, like a mosaic, form a coherent picture of the success of Russian environmental education. In honor of World Environmental Education Day, which took place on January 26, we're sharing the success stories of some of our students.
The path of a leader and strategist
Evgeny Vorozhtsov, a master's student at the Institute of Ecology, has built his work at the intersection of science, state youth policy, and environmental education.
Here are some of his achievements:
Medalist of the "I Am a Professional" Olympiad; 1st place diploma holder of the 4th Open International Internet Ecology Olympiad; member of the Governing Council of the International Club of Sustainable Development Leaders; winner of the Alfa-Bank grant competition; 2nd place in the International Youth Ecological Case Tournament (as part of a team); winner of the international "Ecology is Everyone's Business" award for the creation of two interactive games to teach people about conscious consumption and caring for nature; winner of the 6th All-Russian Case Championship MIR (as part of a team).
The student's competencies were recognized with letters of gratitude from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Russian Federation, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, and the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs.
"Since my undergraduate studies, studies, research, and extracurricular activities have been the foundation of my life. I'm currently working on the federal project "Your Move," implementing competition mechanics across the country, continuing my research in decarbonization, and planning to enroll in graduate school at RUDN University. This is a conscious choice, to which I dedicate all my time. In 2025, I led the "Headmen" program. During the program, students reflected on their experiences participating in the "Your Move, Headman!" competition, co-authored useful materials, and shared their vision for the competition's development in the new season. The students also met with Olga Petrova, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation," said Evgeny Vorozhtsov.
The path of a scientist and innovator
Svetlana Katruk exemplifies a brilliant research career. She is a regular participant and speaker at international conferences in Russian and English, a finalist in the "Your Move" competition with her "Ecological Workshop" project, a finalist in the Mosoblgaz JSC innovation project competition, and the chair of the RUDN University School of EHS Management.
"The 'Ecological Workshop' project helps student ecologists learn about environmental protection trends and understand how to realize their potential as young professionals. The project included expert workshops from representatives of Clean Arctic, Ecosystem, the Friends of Protected Islands movement, and other environmental leaders. Students also received step-by-step instructions on developing and launching their initiatives," said Svetlana Katruk.
Her research has spanned an impressive geography, from Minin University to the International Winter and Summer Schools on Environmental Safety and Digitalization of Agriculture. She has also distinguished herself as an organizer, leading the international family history festival "GenExpo-2025."
The path of the enlightener and guide
Arina Bessonova is a graduate of the "Live and Create in Russia!" program, winner of the MYVMESTE International Award in the "Mentoring of the Year" category, and an ambassador for the award. She chose the path of environmental education and ideological leadership. Having studied in Ivanovo, Kemerovo, and Moscow, she became an advocate for youth policy values. As a semi-finalist in the "I am a Professional" Olympiad and a participant in the Nevsky International Ecological Congress and the "Earthlings" Forum, Arina actively works to implement formats and projects aimed at environmental conservation.
"For example, I participated in the 14th International Environmental Olympiad of CIS Universities. Together with my team, I developed a project to reclaim a solid waste landfill in the village of Borisovka in the Krasnodar Territory. I also organize battery collection at the university and participate in environmental campaigns and cleanup days," says Arina Bessonova.
The Path of a Creator and a Practitioner: Ekaterina Kostenko, a third-year student, has already received a corporate award from the industrial giant Norilsk Nickel in the "Creators" category. Her community service, which began in school, has now evolved into real-world work incorporating environmental initiatives into company projects and providing career guidance to schoolchildren.
"Being a student leader at RUDN University really helps me develop my leadership skills, which I actively use in my work. I plan to further develop Norilsk Nickel's environmental projects. For example, the environmental marathon 'Poneslos' (Here We Go), where employees and their families work on greening the area, promoting environmental education, and studying biodiversity in the Far North," says Ekaterina Kostenko.
These different, yet so resonant stories confirm that environmental education at RUDN University is not a narrow specialization, but a universal foundation for leadership in any field. It is an opportunity to speak the language of science with business, the language of projects with the government, and the language of values with the entire world.
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