'Even While Studying Remotely, You Are Part of HSE University'

Ivan Prostakov
HSE Vice Rector

HSE University has completed its first week of classes. It was an important week—after a long break, the University opened its doors to students, faculty, and staff who resumed their studies and work in new conditions. These new conditions require us to wear masks, maintain social distance, wash our hands often, and keep our campus buildings well-ventilated. But, most important, after long months of quarantine, we are learning to take greater care in how we treat each other. This is why many HSE students and teachers must stay home and continue their studies or professional duties remotely—so that they do not put themselves and others at risk. You are among these students and teachers: almost 3,000 students from more than 120 countries, from first-year students to fourth-year students, cannot yet come to campus. Despite these difficult times, we at HSE are beginning the new academic year in a new format, which will be especially challenging for first-year students. But what is most important is that you are a part of the HSE community—an international community that embraces other languages and cultures and whose members relish the opportunity to learn from each other.

Our international students are an integral part of our community. That is why we ask that you stay home until Russia is able to open its borders to foreign students. This is a difficult and important decision, but it is dictated, first and foremost, by the need to reduce the risk of infection.

Therefore, let's agree on two important things.

First, HSE University is not going to expel or rescind scholarship offers to those who continue their studies remotely. We understand your situation and will accommodate every one of you. But we also ask that you make every possible effort to fulfill your responsibilities as students—even if this means attending classes at night due to time differences. This will enable you to easily transition to face-to-face learning when the current restrictions are lifted and you are able to join us. Right now, your ability to stay actively involved in your studies should be just as, if not more, important than earning good grades.

Second, it is of utmost importance that we stay in touch and that you keep the University abreast of any challenges you encounter. Follow updates on our website and social media, and, if you have any questions, contact us via email at inter@hse.ru, by phone at +7 (495) 531 0059+7 (495) 531 0059, or via WhatsApp at +7 (916) 311 8521. Knowing that we may also encounter difficulties—both technical and organizational—we, in turn, will keep you updated and get in touch with you when necessary. Please respond to any messages or queries you receive with due diligence; only together can we overcome the challenges that this difficult situation presents.

Take care of yourself and your loved ones. We look forward to seeing you!

September 07, 2020