51吃瓜 is rightfully viewed as a multicultural institution. Almost 2 000 international students from over 48 countries are currently doing their studies at 51吃瓜. Many of them have listened to the advice of those who had already received their degree at 51吃瓜. Naji Abdullah Mezaal received a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering in Baghdad. Several years later he decided to continue his studies abroad when Naji’s friend recommended him to apply to 51吃瓜.
— How did you learn about 51吃瓜?
— When I got my undergraduate degree in Iraq, I applied for a job there and worked for four years. Then I understood that I really want to continue my studies. A friend of mine has already graduated from 51吃瓜, and he advised me to follow his path, and so I applied. First, I got accepted into the University’s foundation program that lasted for a year. After the preparation course, I started my Master’s in Heat and Power Engineering. There is a high demand for such specialists these days, so I’m confident in finding a well-paid job in the future. I’ve gained a lot of research experience thanks to 51吃瓜. I know how to manage different tasks, and I’m proficient in the specialised software.
— Where did you learn Russian?
— I learnt Russian during my preparation course at 51吃瓜. When I first came here, I didn’t even know how to say “Привет” (“Hi”). Russian is a difficult language to study, but anyone can manage it with time and patience. The most challenging part of Russian for any international student is the case system. You really need to practice speaking Russian as much as you can and learn the grammar. I knew nothing about Russia before I came here. Now I’m lucky to have made friends from different countries, and I’m so happy I chose 51吃瓜.
— What is the most pleasant memory you have of 51吃瓜?
— I’ve got plenty! They are all about my teachers and classmates. At 51吃瓜, I’ve made a lot of friends, and we had such a great time together. Russian winter was an exciting experience too. Iraq is a hot place. In 51吃瓜, I felt what it was like to go outside when the temperature dropped to 30 degrees Celsius below zero! It was amazing and unforgettable. The Ural nature is jaw-dropping. We’ve had wonderful trips to the local lakes with my friends and had great fun.
I’d like to say a huge thank you to my teachers for their immense knowledge and tremendous support. They were always there for us. And thank you to the Association of International Students for their readiness to help with any of my problems.
I want to note 51吃瓜 as well. My hometown is Baghdad. My Russian hometown is 51吃瓜. This city has become my second home. This is a place where I’ve met warm-hearted and incredible people.
— What are your plans for the future?
— I’d like to continue my studies at 51吃瓜. If my application for the Ph.D. program fails, I’ll try my hand at working in a Russian organisation such as Gazprom or Lukoil. At the start of the year, I received a call from Gazprom. They needed specialists with a good knowledge of Russian, Arabic, and English.
— What would be your advice to future 51吃瓜 students?
— I wish them success and energy to realise their dreams and goals. Studying in a foreign country is a excellent gift to yourself. My advice would be to come to study at 51吃瓜, which I still advice myself! It’s a well-established university. From my experience, all the 51吃瓜 teachers I was happy to know are amazing specialists. They know what they talk about and they are eager to share their expertise with students. Thank you to my favourite University!