Интервью с нашей иностранной студенткой Цзэн Хуачэн

Could you tell a little about yourself? Where are you from, and where did you study before?

I am from China. About ten years ago, I completed my undergraduate studies in English at Jiageng College, Xiamen University, graduating in 2016.

Why did you choose to study in Russia? And why our university?

I traveled to Russia in April 2024 and visited many attractions, art galleries, and museums. This experience inspired me to return here to delve deeper into the field of art. I began learning Russian in September 2024. My Russian language teacher mentioned that HSE University is an excellent institution, so I decided to apply. I was thrilled when I was accepted and immediately shared the good news with my teacher.

Was it difficult to enter our university?

At that time, I had just started learning Russian and did not have an official language proficiency certificate. I was concerned that this might hinder my admission.

Why did you decide to enroll in our master's program? What do you particularly enjoy about it?

I really like the curriculum of our Master's program in Art History and Art Market. Even though I switched academic fields and had a ten-year break from formal studying, I can clearly see the logic and purpose behind the course design. As I needed to improve my skills in this new area, I was deeply touched by the patience and willingness to help from my teachers and classmates. Knowing that I have so much support gives me extra motivation. I find HSE to be an inspiring university, and that is what interests me the most.

Did you encounter any problems while adapting to the life here?

While adapting to studying and living in Russia, the three biggest challenges for me have been getting used to the local diet, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and managing the academic workload.

Has your attitude toward higher education changed over the past ten years? What specifically prompted your renewed interest in learning?

I feel that the practical value of higher education in China can depreciate relatively quickly, which is why I previously had limited interest in further academic studies and thought that the ability to make money was sufficient. Ten years passed like that. Now, I have rediscovered my interest in learning, which has allowed me to reopen my perspective and re-evaluate Chinese education. I am genuinely happy to have the chance to study again.

How do you spend your free time? Are you involved in any student organizations, clubs, or events?

In my free time, I usually exercise in my dormitory by following workout videos, go out for Chinese food, and also sign up for short-distance trips organized by the university. I also call my family to share my learning experiences, and we recommend books or online courses to each other for self-study. For instance, my dad has recommended several video courses for me to take when I don't have regular classes.

Our curriculum includes many museum visits. Is there a particular museum that you liked most?

I was most impressed by the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts. The course related to the Renaissance period had a huge, even staggering, impact on me. To be honest, it was a bit frightening, and I still occasionally dream about being in a museum class and not knowing the answer to a question. But this course made me constantly ponder one issue: how can one better understand works of art? I even wrote a methodological paper in Chinese on this topic and submitted it to a Chinese journal, but I haven't received any response yet.

What are your expectations from further education?

I have one modest hope for the future: to pass all my exams successfully, hahaha!