My HSE Story: A Chinese Student’s Journey from Applicant to Explorer in Moscow
Hello everyone, I am Cui Jincheng, a master's student at HSE University. My major is Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication.
Two years ago, searching for “Higher School of Economics (HSE) Moscow” marked the start of my journey. As a Chinese student, studying in Russia — with its rich culture and academics—filled me with excitement and nerves. Today, I share my story: application struggles, exam truths, Russian study insights, and advice for fellow applicants, a tale of courage, adaptation, and self-discovery.
My Path as an HSE Applicant: Courage Over Uncertainty
My choice to apply to HSE stemmed from my passion for foreign languages and cross-cultural communication. HSE stood out for its top rankings in Russia/Eastern Europe, strong focus on humanities and intercultural studies, and diverse community (40,000+ students from 150+ countries).
The biggest challenge was language: even with English-taught programs (I chose Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication), basic Russian was essential for daily life and academic interactions. Because I studied Russian for four years at a university in China, it helped me overcome some difficulties in communication.
Preparing my application package (transcripts, personal statement, two recommendations) took effort. The personal statement, focused on my curiosity about cross-cultural exchange and desire to bridge Sino-Russian cultural gaps, was revised extensively. A Chinese HSE alumnus advised authenticity, which I embraced.
Was It Easy to Pass the Exams and Become an HSE Student? Truth About the “Challenge”
Getting into HSE is not easy but achievable with preparation. Unlike China’s Gaokao, HSE’s international entrance process combines academic tests and interviews, focusing on foundational knowledge and potential.
For Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication, exams included a written test (English proficiency, basic linguistics, cross-cultural studies fundamentals) and an oral interview. To prepare, I used HSE’s sample papers, reviewed my language and cultural studies textbooks, and joined a Chinese applicant study group.
The oral interview, with two HSE professors, tested my statement, understanding of intercultural communication, and basic Russian. When I struggled with a question about Sino-Russian cultural differences, honesty about my eagerness to learn was praised—attitude matters as much as knowledge.
A month later, my acceptance email arrived. Hard work, discipline from my Chinese education, and honesty had paid off.
Studying in Russia: Embracing Differences and Growing Every Day
Moving to Moscow was tough initially—I struggled with language, metro navigation, and homesickness—but I grew to love its uniqueness.
HSE’s Old Basmannaya Street campus (my faculty’s home) is modern and vibrant. Its academic freedom and interactive classes (group discussions, cross-cultural workshops, language practice sessions) differed from China’s lecture-based style, fostering critical thinking and communication skills. Professors are qualified, approachable, and globally minded, with expertise in intercultural communication.
Living in HSE’s Dormitory No. 9 was a highlight. My three-person room with international roommates was comfortable, with shared kitchen/laundry facilities and strict security, making daily life convenient.
And my Russian friends helped me master basic Russian; we exchanged cooking skills and celebrated festivals together. I also befriended international dorm-mates, broadening my horizons through shared stories and cultural exchanges—perfect for my major.
HSE’s Rich Extracurricular Activities: A Highlight of Student Life
At HSE University, attending classes isn't always the most important thing. All students are encouraged to enjoy life outside the classroom. As an HSE student, you not only need to know how to study, but also how to "play." One of HSE’s greatest charms is its abundant extracurricular activities, which complement academic learning and enrich student life. The university hosts regular concerts—featuring classical music, Russian folk music, and even international performances—where students can relax and appreciate different art forms. Student nights are held monthly, with games, dances, and cultural sharing sessions that bring together students from all over the world, breaking down language and cultural barriers. Of all the events, Student Night is my favorite,it's practically a carnival! This event is held once a year, and I go every year with my friends. Here, all you have to do is enjoy the music and dance, forgetting all your worries and stress.
There are also numerous cultural clubs representing different countries, including a Chinese Culture Club (which I joined), a Russian Folk Club, and clubs for European, Asian, and American cultures. In the Chinese Culture Club, we organize events like Spring Festival celebrations, Chinese calligraphy workshops, and dumpling-making parties, introducing Chinese culture to our international peers. These activities not only helped me make more friends but also deepened my understanding of other cultures, aligning perfectly with my major in Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication.
My Trips: Exploring Moscow and Beyond
In my free time, I explore Moscow—Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and museums like the Pushkin Museum are favorites, offering rich cultural experiences that complement my studies.
I’ve also traveled to St. Petersburg (Winter Palace, canal tours) and Sergiev Posad (Trinity Lavra), seeing diverse sides of Russia with HSE friends.
Advice to My Fellow Chinese Applicants: Believe in Yourself and Embrace the Journey
For Chinese applicants considering HSE/Russia, here’s my key advice: Learn basic Russian early. It eases daily life—use HSE language courses or exchange groups to practice, especially helpful for language and cultural majors.
Prepare thoroughly for exams and be honest. Use HSE’s sample papers; focus on language skills and cultural knowledge for humanities majors; honesty in interviews beats fake answers.
Be open-minded. Embrace cultural differences—they foster growth and connection, and are central to majors like Foreign Languages and Intercultural Communication.
Build a support system. Befriend Chinese, international, and Russian students; join HSE cultural clubs to deepen cultural understanding.
Prioritize your well-being. Eat well, exercise, and seek help (HSE’s counseling center) if stressed/homesick.
Seize extracurricular opportunities. Participate in concerts, cultural clubs, and student nights—they’re a great way to practice language, make friends, and apply what you learn in class.
Closing Thoughts: Gratitude and Hope
From a nervous applicant to a proud HSE student, this journey has taught me courage and adaptability. HSE’s academic excellence, diverse community, and rich extracurriculars have enriched me academically and personally, deepening my passion for foreign languages and cross-cultural communication.
To fellow Chinese applicants: Don’t let fear stop you. Prepare well, believe in yourself, and the rewards will justify the effort.
As I look ahead, HSE’s lessons, friends, and memories will stay with me. This is my story—one of courage, growth, and hope—and I’m excited for what’s next.