sovainfo.ru: “My Dream Is to Become an Engineer”: Chinese Student Speaks about Movement to Samara and Difficulties of Language Barrier

“I came to Samara with my Chinese classmates”

- Yishan, tell us, where are you from?

- I am from Mianyang city, Sichunan province, China. I first learned about Samara when I decided to study in Russia. I am interested in aviation and engines. My dream is to become an engineer who can contribute to international cooperation. I was not afraid of language barrier because I had learnt Russian before arriving. It is a necessary process for adaptation to new life. And I came to Samara with my Chinese classmates in order to help each other.

- Did you have difficulties with adaptation to local climate?

- Yes, there are difficulties with adaptation to local climate, especially to cold Russian winters – I wear warm clothes and a hat that is rare for China. Also, I tried different ways to warm up, for example, ginger tea.

“I was surprised by warmth and friendliness of local residents”.

- What do you like most about Samara and why?

- My favorite place in Samara – the University where I study and its Botanic Garden. I like academic atmosphere, opportunities that it gives. I participated in different events and many lecturers of the University and volunteers helped me a lot.

- What was surprising for you in the Samara Region?

- I was amazed by beautiful landscapes of Samara and hospitality of residents. Upon arrival I was immediately conquered by the Volga. In my opinion, the river surrounds the city like silk. Also, I was surprised by warmth and friendliness of local residents. When I once lost my clothes in a restaurant, customers and staff helped me. This summer my friend Tanya invited me to her country house. I am grateful for everything.

- Was it easy to find friends among the local residents?

- Yes, I noticed that they are very friendly and open for communication. Youth prefers to spend time in the open air enjoying nature. Although were are from different countries, we have many common hobbies. They are always happy to share their experience.

- How did you overcome the language barrier?

- I use dictionary or translator for communication. The residents of Samara are very patient and listen attentively to my explanations. If it is difficult for me to express something, I show it on pictures. Fortunately, some students and lecturers also speak English and that makes communication easier. That really helps me to adapt and to understand culture and people around me better.

“Less stress and more time for rest”

- Do you participate in any cultural events or festivals in Samara?

- Yes, I especially keep in mind Maslenitsa celebrations. That allowed me to feel vital energy of the city and to pour myself into wonderful culture of Russia.

- How do you appreciate pace of life in Samara comparing to your birth city?

- Comparing to my birth city, life in Samara is calmer. There is less stress and more time for rest, entertainments.

“A lot of experimental lessons”

- Tell us about your experience of study in Samara University.

- When I studied in the University I found that a lot of attention was paid to combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Here, in addition to lectures, I have a lot of experimental lessons. In China theory takes about 70% of study time.

- If you could give advise to future foreign students coming to Samara, what would you recommend to them?

- I recommend to future foreign students to learn Russian well before arriving, but the most important – to communicate seriously and friendly. To be patient to other people. There are differences between cultures, but they do not mean that someone is better. Thanks to support of the University and friends, I successfully adapted to the conditions of Samara.

“Amazing beaches and lots of beautiful sculptures”

- Which places in Samara would you recommend to visit to every tourist?

- I recommend tourists to visit museum “Space Samara”, the famous Russian Soyuz rocket is exhibited next to it. Walk along the Volga – there are amazing beaches and lots of beautiful sculptures.

- What else did you manage to see in the Samara region?

- I travelled across the Samara region. One of the most impressive places where I have ever been is Shiryayevo. I saw beautiful landscapes there, learned about local culture and history.

Source: sovainfo.ru