International Students Testimonials

Magaly Choez, Ecuador

National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute)

When I arrived, I did not know a word in Russian. Now it seems funny to me

My name is Magaly Choez, I’m 25. It’s already 5 years as I live in Moscow. I’ve received bachelor’s degree here, in Russia and now I study at MEPhI, in the Institute of International Relations. I learned about MEPhI by chance. And what I liked here is teaching: it is not limited by one direction, but allows students to develop technical, economic and political spheres. Every day I discover something new, receive new knowledge, and, of course, it pleases. It means that all is in front.

When I arrived, I did not know a word in Russian. It was very difficult because I could not communicate. However people somehow understood me. Now, when I remember it, I find it funny. And I can say that with great effort but I’ve learned to speak Russian. And it gladdens me.

In fact I spent a lot of time teaching grammar. I just sat and taught – verbs, words, nouns, and adjectives... And it’s the only way I could learn it. And, of course, practice is very important. I’ve read Russian literature. At the very beginning at Russian lessons we read “Eugene Onegin” and learned it by heart. Our teacher explained unfamiliar words to us. It is a very interesting work. Since then, it's my favorite. Also I read “Heart of a Dog” and “A Hero of Our Time”.

In the Institute of International Relations I have recently started studying English and French, what makes me very happy. I always wanted to know them and hope that everything will be successful. Teachers and classmates treat me and all foreigners really good. They are always ready to help.

In my spare time I go to the gym, follow healthy diet, as well as try to walk a lot in summer, because in winter I can not walk long. Also I visit museums, try to learn more about the culture of Russia.

What can I say about life in Russia? I like living here, despite the difficulties that I had in the first period. In my opinion the most important thing is not only to learn the language but also to understand the mentality of Russian people. And when you start to understand it, you start to fully communicate.