"Surprises and Challenges ":walailak students share unforgettable exchange experiences in Russia
As a student of this era, I feel that the internet and advanced technology have made the world more interconnected than ever before. The flow of information is faster than ever, and crossing borders, cultures, and language barriers has become easier. With modern transportation, we can travel effortlessly from one place to another, and the opportunities for global exploration are more abundant than at any other time in history. In this age of opportunities, as a university student, I often think about how to make the most of my time at university, especially what skills will become increasingly important as I pursue my career and life goals.
One of the most valuable experiences for university students is studying abroad, and it has brought me many unique benefits. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration at Valerak University, and I had the opportunity to participate in an exchange program, spending six months in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The university covered part of my airfare and all my accommodation costs, providing me with the resources to immerse myself in Russia’s unique culture and educational system.
During my time in Russia, I not only gained academic knowledge but also learned how to communicate and collaborate effectively in a multicultural environment by interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds. Life in Saint Petersburg is very different from China. The pace is slower, but it is also full of unique charm. The people here are elegant and composed, and every detail is worth savoring. Outside of class, I also visited Moscow during the holidays, where I explored famous sites such as the Kremlin and Red Square, experiencing the city’s culture and history. Through these travels, I deeply felt the depth and diversity of Russian culture, which greatly contributed to my personal growth.
The education system in Saint Petersburg also benefited me immensely. Russian teaching methods emphasize the integration of theory and practice, especially in business management. I learned many new theoretical concepts and applied them to real-life case studies and team projects. At the same time, interacting with classmates from around the world helped me improve my cross-cultural communication skills and teamwork abilities.
This exchange experience not only improved my professional skills but also gave me a deeper understanding of the global business environment. Reflecting on this experience, I realize that cross-cultural learning and communication are invaluable. It has expanded my horizons, enhanced my adaptability and independence, and given me confidence in my future career development.
I also want to take this opportunity to encourage fellow students considering an exchange program, especially those who, like us, are choosing cross-cultural environments. At first, there may be many challenges, but challenges are the pathway to growth. Every instance of discomfort and every hurdle crossed will make you more mature and independent, while gaining more knowledge and practical experience.
