‘Seeing Red Square at Night and Sharing Time with Friends from Different Countries are Moments I Will Remember for a Long Time’

Photo courtesy of Sashadhar Dutta

Sashadhar Dutta, from India, is a second-year PhD student at the Doctoral School of Economics at the HSE University–Moscow Faculty of Mathematics. He is currently working on his PhD thesis titled ‘On Some New Bounds Connected with Recurrent Sequences Modulo Prime’ under the academic supervision of Associate Professor Ilya Vyugin. Sashadhar spoke to the HSE News Service about why HSE deserves its good reputation, what he likes about Moscow, and how his time at HSE has changed his perceptions of both Russia and his own research.

Choosing HSE and Moscow

I chose HSE because it is one of the leading research universities in Russia, with a strong international reputation in STEM, economics, and social sciences. It is one of the best mathematical universities, and offers a rigorous PhD programme with strong research supervision and international collaboration.

Moscow is a global academic and cultural centre, especially for mathematicians.

Before arriving, I expected academic challenges, a new language and culture, and cold winters, but also a vibrant student life. My expectations have been fully met. My professors are really helpful, especially my PhD supervisor, Prof. Ilya Vyugin.

The Student Experience

My experience at HSE has been very enriching. The academic environment is demanding but very supportive. I particularly enjoy the emphasis on independent research, regular doctoral seminars, and opportunities to present at conferences.

I take part in research workshops, conferences, and student events organised by HSE, which allows me to interact with students and researchers from around the world.

My most memorable experiences were my first presentation at an HSE Math departmental seminar and my first winter in Moscow. Presenting my research to an international audience was challenging but the feedback was very motivating. Walking in Moscow, seeing Red Square at night and the beautiful metro stations, and sharing time with friends from different countries in the dormitory are moments I will remember for a long time.

Moscow Life

What I like most about Moscow is its combination of history, culture, and modern life. The city is safe, well-organised, and has lots to offer students: museums, parks, libraries, and cultural events. Also, every weekend I go to our Indian Hindu temple.

Academic communication at HSE is in English, but in daily life, basic Russian is necessary. Initially it was challenging, but I have learned to manage everyday communication. People are generally helpful, and learning Russian has made my life in Moscow much easier and more enjoyable.

Studying and living in Moscow has taught me to be more independent, adaptable, and open-minded.

I have learned a lot about Russian culture, hospitality, and resilience. Academically, it has broadened my perspective and helped me see my research in a global context. It has changed the way I see Russia—as a country with deep academic traditions and warm people—and has made me more confident about my own academic goals.

Future Plans

After completing my PhD, I plan to continue in academia as a researcher and professor. I would like to continue research in my field and contribute to academic collaboration between India and Russia. I also hope to maintain long-term ties with HSE.