At the Institute of Engine and Power Plant Engineering (IEPPE), a master’s student from distant China is making his mark in the program “Aircraft Engines.” He has been a repeat laureate of Samara University’s Student Award, seems to participate in every campus initiative, was spotted at Governor Vyacheslav Fedorishchev’s meeting with students, and dreams of attending the World Youth Festival for the second time. Meet Xiaorui Mai!
Xiaorui is no newcomer to Samara University—he has already completed a dual bachelor’s degree through a joint program between Northwestern Polytechnical University (China) and Samara National Research University, graduating with “red diplomas” (honors) from both institutions. He was also honored as “Best Graduate” by both universities and the IEPPE.
Researcher
Currently, Xiaorui is developing high-efficiency sealing systems for aircraft gas turbine engines. His research interests include thermogasdynamic calculations, CFD modeling, and the analysis of how design parameters affect engine performance. To date, he has authored five scientific presentations at Russian conferences—several of which received awards and were recognized as “Best Presentation.” One of his papers has been published in a Scopus-indexed journal.
Xiaorui came to Russia on a Chinese Government Scholarship (awarded by the China Scholarship Council, CSC). During his undergraduate studies, he completed a professional retraining program in CAD/CAM technologies and earned a certification in automated design of technological processes.
Last summer, he interned as a Product Analyst in the AI division of VIVO (China), contributing to the development of features for the Origin OS operating system, including scenario analysis, testing, documentation, and cross-team coordination. “This experience broadened my horizons,” Xiaorui admits. “I believe that knowledge in neural networks and digital technologies will significantly support my engineering research.”
Passion for Startups
Xiaorui actively leverages innovation support programs in both China and Russia, enabling him to engage in numerous startup projects and competitions. In 2024, his team’s project MachOpt Solver won a bronze medal in the international track of the China International College Students’ Innovation Competition, where he led model development, structural strength analysis, and business planning. His name also appears among participants and winners of Russia’s “Big Scout” program (2024), the 14th Shaanxi Challenge Cup (2024), the “Internet+” competition (2022), and the Shaanxi Innovation Training Program (2022).
“Working in innovation-driven teams has taught me that turning ideas into viable solutions requires deep market understanding and strong teamwork,” Xiaorui summarizes. “I’m eagerly looking forward to the World Youth Festival to exchange ideas with peers from around the world and discover how different cultures foster unique innovations.”
A Formula for Borderless Friendship
Xiaorui’s openness and energy have made him a natural bridge between cultures. He volunteered as class representative for Chinese students at the university, helping newcomers navigate everything from visas and housing to academics and daily life in Russia. Today, he generously shares his experience through the Samara International Friendship Club, leading conversation clubs and organizing cultural excursions for students from Russia, China, India, and Pakistan.
He is also deeply involved in volunteer work—assisting in the organization of scientific and educational events, providing translation services, coordinating meetings between Chinese institutions and Samara University departments, and managing International Winter and Summer Schools. During admissions season, he supports prospective Chinese applicants with document preparation, consultations, and ongoing guidance via WeChat.
“My dream is to organize an inter-university cultural festival,” Xiaorui shares. “I believe volunteering and civic engagement are essential tools for fostering intercultural understanding and strengthening civil society.”
From the World Youth Festival in Sochi and the “Mister International” contest to the University Ethnic Festival and the Samara University Student Award, Xiaorui consistently uses these platforms to showcase the richness of Chinese culture and traditions.
Recently, he has also taken up running—participating in two major races along the Volga River in summer 2025.
Xiaorui’s Principles
When asked about his secret to balancing such a demanding schedule, Xiaorui shared his personal philosophy with our readers:
“I follow three core principles.
First—don’t hesitate, just try. Instead of wasting time wondering whether I can handle a new challenge or if I have enough resources, I take the first step. Later, I adjust my schedule, reassess priorities, and build a more efficient system. Many competencies develop precisely when you accept responsibility and step outside your comfort zone.
Second—adopt a long-term perspective. Significant results rarely come overnight; they emerge from consistent daily effort. Even dedicating a few extra minutes each day to do a small task slightly better accumulates over time into meaningful achievement.
Third—practice focused task management. When it’s time to study, I focus solely on studying; during research, I immerse myself fully in the work; and in public activities, I fulfill my duties with maximum diligence. Concentrating on the task at hand brings clarity and sustainable rhythm to life. If you execute daily responsibilities well, strategic success becomes the natural outcome of systematic effort.”
Text by Elena Pamurzina
Photos provided by Xiaorui Mai
