федеральное государственное автономное образовательное учреждение высшего образования
«Самарский национальный исследовательский университет имени академика С.П. Королева»
From Congo to Samara: A Student’s Journey of Discovery and Growth

From Congo to Samara: A Student’s Journey of Discovery and Growth

Самарский университет

David Ignoumba shares his experience studying at Samara University, adjusting to life in Russia, and finding kindness, opportunity, and a new home away from home

12.05.2025 1970-01-01

What were your expectations from Russia?

Talking about my expectations from Russia.

Firstly, when I was in my country, I knew that once I arrive in Russia, I would have a different life than what I lived in my country. Because, there is a difference in climate. and living without family should be something new for me.

But I knew that once I arrive, I would have a new family, new friends, good education, opportunities to work, small jobs.., These were my expectations From Russia.

Did it live up to your expectations?

Yes, already 95 percent. Although I have not yet started my university studies, I am still in preparatory faculty. But seeing the reality, I know that I will have a very good education in my specialty. Regarding the opportunities to work part time, there are many. I made some new friends with some Russian guys. I met many Russians who helped me, and who were kind to me. Even at home, in the shop and on the streets. Of course, not all Russians are the same but many are kind. So, I can say, that Russia lived up 95 percent to my expectations.

Interesting facts about Russia and my country:

I can talk about social life: I can say that people are kind and ready to help others. Student life, teamwork, with friends, university activities like football for those who like football, basketball, and many other activities. Celebration of holidays such as: January 1st, Christmas, Valentine's Day..., presence of religions like, Christianity, Islam.., and others. These are facts that Russia and my country have in common.

About my studies in Samara University:

My studies in Samara University are going well. I’m already being in the preparatory faculty. We go to museums, and this already allows me to have an idea about the field I am going to study. With qualified teachers, I am progressing quickly in language learning and I understand quickly too. The teachers are very kind. And with homework to do, it allows me to work a lot. Although, it is not easy, but it is not that difficult. You just have to adapt and everything will be easy.

Things I wish I knew before coming to Russia

There are several things I would like to know before coming to Russia.

First, I would like to know how it works at immigration, in which language I should speak to answer certain questions in case I am asked questions. The second, I would like to know if it was necessary for me to learn a little Russian before coming, to learn some basic phrases. How I was going to get to my city when I arrived in Moscow, how much it could cost.

And once I arrived in my city, how I was going to get to the university, or to find a hostel before joining the university residence, how much the hostel should cost per day, and what documents I had to have before joining the hostel, and how much it could cost. What documents I had to present for the extension of the visa. So ultimately I prepared for it, and the university sent someone from my country to guide me through all the procedures, and everything went well.

So, thank you so much everyone, I wish you welcome to Samara University.