‘Studying at HSE Has Been the Most Important and Enriching Experience of My Life’

Lucas Akolzin

Photo courtesy of Lucas Akolzin

Lucas Akolzin, from Brazil, is a third-year student of the International Programme 'International Relations and Global Studies.' In his interview with the HSE News Service, he spoke about why he decided to pursue education in international relations, what political leaders inspire him, and how his Russian background encouraged him to study in Moscow.

—Why did you decide to study abroad, and what made you choose HSE University’s Bachelor’s Programme in International Relations?

—I was born in Petrópolis, a city in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Before moving to Russia, I was finishing school and preparing for university. After graduation, I was admitted to the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), but I eventually decided to study law in my hometown for a few months. During that period, I made the decision to pursue higher education in Russia.

One of the main inspirations behind this choice was my grandfather’s experience. He studied in Moscow in the 1960s, where he met my grandmother

As I have a Russian background, they encouraged me to follow a similar path and begin my own here.

Since my school years, I wanted to study international relations. I decided to pursue the field that had always interested me most and looked for opportunities abroad.

I chose the HSE University’s Bachelor’s Programme in IR because of its interdisciplinary approach

The programme offers multiple subjects and gives students the opportunity to deepen their knowledge not only in international relations, but also in areas such as economics, communication, and regional studies. Another important factor was the support I received from HSE from the very beginning. The university staff were extremely helpful with documentation and administrative procedures, making the transition much easier than I expected.

—Which courses or subjects at HSE have been the most interesting for you so far, and why? Are there any professors that have had a particularly strong impact on your studies?

—I enjoy courses related to international relations theory and subjects that encourage open discussion and critical thinking.

One course that I found especially interesting was Migration Policy, taught by our Academic Supervisor, Oleg Korneev. Migration is one of the most important issues in contemporary international affairs, and the course provided valuable insights into the political and social parts of migration.

I would also like to highlight the course Geopolitical Economy with Prof. Radhika Desai. It has been one of the most intellectually stimulating courses I have taken.

Another valuable experience was the Latin America course taught by Prof. Fyodor Alekseev. It allowed me to deepen my understanding of my region and further develop my analytical skills.

And, of course, there is the process of writing my thesis, which is about Brazil’s rightful place as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

I am especially grateful to Prof. Ana Livia Araujo Esteves, who has supervised my research and has been an important mentor throughout my studies. As a Brazilian scholar specialising in Brazilian–Russian relations, I am thankful she has shared her knowledge and guidance that have influenced my academic interests.

My learning experience at HSE has been very rewarding because the university encourages discussion and research

Preparing for exams and assignments requires students to engage with academic literature and develop their own perspectives on international issues. This has helped me grow both academically and professionally.

Photo courtesy of Lucas Akolzin

—Is there an international political leader, diplomat, thinker, or public figure whom you admire or find especially inspiring? What qualities do you appreciate in that person?

—I admire several Brazilian diplomats and political thinkers, particularly those associated with Brazil’s tradition of Independent Foreign Policy. Among them, I would highlight San Tiago Dantas, Afonso Arinos de Melo Franco, and the current Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira.

I also greatly respect the work of Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Itamaraty, for its long-standing commitment to diplomacy, multilateralism, and efforts to promote a more representative and just system of global governance.

Among intellectuals, I must highlight anti-colonial and decolonial thinkers such as Quijano and Aimé Césaire. Their work has helped expose the historical and ongoing struggles faced by societies in Africa and Latin America. These themes are closely connected to my own academic interests and research and I believe every student of international relations should be aware of these challenges people face.

—How is your Russian language learning going? Was it difficult at first, and in what situations do you use Russian most often?

—My Russian language learning has been going very well. In fact, I’ve just received my certificate of proficiency in the Russian language, as well as certificates in Russian History and the Constitution of Russia.

I am very grateful to the university for providing many opportunities to communicate in Russian in both academic and everyday settings

Living and studying in Russia has also allowed me to improve other languages. In addition to my native Portuguese and Russian, I have further developed my English and Spanish skills during my studies. For that, I would especially like to thank my Spanish professors Inna Yukhim and Vladimir Kucheryavykh. I use Russian every day—it is extremely important.

—What do you like most about living in Moscow? Are there any places, activities, or aspects of the city that you particularly enjoy?

—I arrived in Moscow four years ago, in April. It was a snowy day, and seeing the city covered in snow from the airplane window was an unforgettable experience. Coming directly from Rio de Janeiro, I was surprised.

What surprised me most was how quickly the city transformed. By May, which is my favourite month of the year, Moscow became one of the most beautiful cities I had ever seen. The parks and streets feel so different, creating a completely unique atmosphere from the snowy place I had first encountered.

What I appreciate most about Moscow is its quality of life. The city is clean, well-organised, and offers excellent public services and transportation

Everyday life is very convenient, and there is always something interesting to do.

I also enjoy the cultural opportunities Moscow provides, whether it is museums, theatres, concerts, exhibitions, or simply walking through historical areas.

—Do you have any hobbies, favourite places, or activities that help you relax?

—I enjoy exploring different parts of Moscow, visiting museums, attending cultural events, and spending time with friends.

One of my favourite activities is simply walking through the city during spring and summer. Moscow has many beautiful parks and public spaces

I love each of the Seven Sisters buildings, but specially the Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Building.

—What advice would you give to prospective international students who are considering applying to HSE University and moving to Moscow?

—My advice would be to remain open-minded and make the most of every opportunity available.

Also, check all of your documents and do not miss any deadlines with them.

I also encourage future students to learn Russian and engage with people from different cultural backgrounds. The university provides excellent academic opportunities, a diverse international environment, and strong support for students. Moscow is a fascinating city that offers much more than many people expect.

Studying here has been the most important and enriching experience of my life, and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in pursuing an international education.