PetrSU Student Goes to the World Student Festival

Exactly one month remains until the start of the World Youth Festival, the largest youth event in the world. It will unite enthusiastic people from all over the planet. According to the Decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the festival will be held from March 1 to March 7, 2024 on the federal territory of Sirius.

The festival will convene 20,000 Russian and foreign young leaders in business, media, international cooperation, culture, science, education, volunteering and charity, sports, various spheres of public life, as well as teenagers representing various children's organizations and associations.

Among the festival participants will be the 4th year student at the Institute of Forestry, Mining and Construction Sciences of PetrSU Ivan Anibal Fernandes De Almeida.

He came to us to study from the Republic of Mozambique, a country located in Southeast Africa.

Ivan Anibal Fernandes De Almeida answers questions from the press service, shares his impressions of his studies and future plans.

Why did you decide to take part in the festival?

I have always loved learning more about other cultures, and when I heard about the festival, I didn’t hesitate to take part in it, because this is a place where I can not only communicate with people from different cultures, but also meet them.

What will you do during the festival?

During the festival, I will strive to actively participate in various events, expanding my knowledge and cultural horizons through workshops, discussions and cultural performances. Establishing contacts with young people from all over the world and participating in volunteer projects will not only allow me to contribute to the festival, but will also help me grow as a person, as well as promote global values of peace and solidarity. This festival is an exceptional opportunity for the exchange of ideas and inspiration, and I intend to make the most of it.

You are a 4th year Bachelor's student so you about to complete your studies, what are your plans for the future? Will you return home? Or will you continue your studies?

As I enter the final stages of my undergraduate studies, I am carefully considering my plans for the future and my future academic trajectory is largely set. My main goal is to continue my education in a Master's program, for which I plan to enter one of the leading universities in St. Petersburg. I am convinced that continuing my Master's studies will allow me to deepen my professional knowledge and develop the necessary skills that will make a significant contribution to my future career.

At the same time, I feel a deep connection with the city of Petrozavodsk. After completing my Master's degree, I plan to return to Petrozavodsk.

What profession will you have? Where will you be able to work?

Upon completion of my undergraduate studies, I will receive a degree in Agricultural Engineering, a major that combines knowledge of agriculture, biotechnology, and engineering. This qualification opens up a wide range of opportunities for career growth and professional development.

I can work in private agricultural firms, state agricultural organizations, research institutes, as well as in companies engaged in the design and implementation of innovative solutions in agricultural production.

Moreover, given the current global challenges related to sustainable development and food security, the competencies of agricultural engineers are of particular value.

Why did you choose PetrSU? How did you find out about our university?

When it came to choosing a university, my main strategy was to apply to several universities that offer quality education in agricultural engineering. In the end, I selected six universities, including PetrSU, based on an analysis of the curricula, teaching staff and scientific achievements of each university.

The choice of PetrSU became life-defining for me. To my surprise and joy, it was PetrSU that was the first to offer me a place to study. Although initially I was not familiar with PetrSU as deeply as with other universities, I soon learned about its excellent reputation and significant achievements in the scientific and educational spheres. PetrSU is known for its innovative educational program, strong scientific base and attention to an individual approach to learning.

Which subjects did you like in particular and why?

Mathematics has had a significant impact on my academic journey and personal development, attracting me with its rigor, logic and beauty. It not only provides tools for understanding and describing the world in various fields, but also promotes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. These qualities are indispensable in my future professional activities and make a significant contribution to my personal growth.

That is why mathematics has a special place among my academic interests.

Was it difficult to study?

Studying in Russian, a language different from my native Portuguese, presented a significant challenge, especially at the initial stage of my academic journey. In my first year, I encountered difficulties associated not only with mastering specialized disciplines, but also with the need to adapt to a new language environment, which significantly complicated the learning process.

However, over time, thanks to hard work, perseverance and the support of teachers and classmates, I was able to overcome the language barrier and significantly improve my Russian language skills. By the fourth year I feel significant progress both linguistically and academically. I now feel much more confident and learning has gone from being a source of stress to being an opportunity for growth and self-development.

What will you remember from your student life? What will you tell your friends and family about student life and university?

From my student life, bright and rich moments will forever remain in my memory, which I will be happy to share with friends and family. The unique opportunity to study in the Russian language and immersion in the cultural context of Russia became a valuable experience for me, which is an integral part of my educational path.

Moments of joy after passing exams and academic achievements will remain in my memory as a reminder that effort and perseverance always lead to success.

Of no less importance to me are the cultural events organized by the university together with the Slovo association and the Mir club, which allowed me to become better acquainted with Russian culture and history. These experiences have enriched my understanding and brought unique experiences into my life.

Recalling my student life, I will talk about how important every day we live is, every new experience we get and knowledge we learn, and how all this together shapes us as individuals, ready for new challenges and achievements.

Tell us how you got used to new conditions, to our city? Did you miss your family and friends?

Adapting to new conditions and moving to another city to study became a significant, but at the same time exciting stage for me. Arriving in Petrozavodsk, I immediately felt its unique atmosphere and cultural richness. Although the beginning was difficult, especially due to the language barrier and differences in cultural traditions, every day brought new discoveries and opportunities for personal growth.

Of course, I felt homesick and missed my family. Family connections and support have always played an important role in my life. However, thanks to technology and communications, we stayed in touch, sharing news and experiences. My family has always supported my desire to learn and develop, and their joy for my successes and new achievements helped me overcome moments of sadness.

In general, despite some nostalgia for home, moving to a new city and studying here became an exciting adventure for me, full of new opportunities and prospects.

Who helped you adapt to your new life?

Friends and especially the student club "Mir".

Did you like our city Petrozavodsk? Karelia?

Petrozavodsk and all of Karelia made a deep impression on me and left unforgettable memories. The city of Petrozavodsk, with its unique combination of cultural heritage and modernity, attracts with its picturesque landscapes, architectural monuments and the warm welcome of its residents. I was amazed by the beauty of Karelia’s nature, its endless forests, clear lakes and breathtaking views, which became a source of inspiration and relaxation.

Petrozavodsk and Karelia not only enriched my academic experience, but also left a significant imprint on my heart. These are places where you want to return again and again.

What did you manage to see in Russia? Have you traveled to other cities?

During my stay in Russia, I had the amazing opportunity to explore its diversity by visiting several iconic and historically significant cities. In addition to living in Petrozavodsk, I traveled to different parts of the country, which allowed me to experience and get to know Russia from different perspectives.

My journey began in the majestic St. Petersburg, a city with a rich historical heritage and striking architecture. A visit to the Hermitage, walks along Nevsky Prospekt and admiration of the white nights left an indelible impression.

In Ukhta, I was able to feel the unique spirit of the north and get acquainted with the culture and customs of the local residents. The city of Tula surprised me with its history and famous samovars, as well as the comfort of its streets.

A trip to Orenburg revealed to me the beauty of the Russian steppe and allowed me to enjoy local culinary traditions. Moscow, as the heart of Russia, stunned me with its dynamics, the mixture of antiquity and modernity, and Red Square and the Kremlin became the culmination of my trip.

Each of these cities presented vivid images and profound emotions that I will keep in my memory. These trips allowed me not only to see the diversity of Russian culture and nature, but also to better understand the history and modernity of this great country.

What are your wishes to students and Festival participants?

Dear participants of the World Youth Festival, standing on the threshold of this significant and exciting event, I want to convey to you my most sincere wishes.

The first and most important thing is to be open to new knowledge, cultures and acquaintances. The festival provides a unique opportunity for learning, exchange and inspiration. Use every moment to enrich your inner world, immerse yourself in new ideas and create friendships that cross the borders of countries and continents.

Secondly, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It is outside of it that growth and development occur. Participate in discussions, present your projects, share your experience and knowledge. This not only promotes personal development, but also contributes to the overall mission of the festival - building peace and cooperation.

Third, enjoy every moment. The festival is not only study and work, but also a time for creativity, relaxation and joy. May every day bring you new bright impressions, discoveries and unforgettable moments.

And lastly, remember your role after the festival. The inspiration and knowledge you gain here can be a powerful force for change in your community, country, and the world. Be ambassadors of peace, cooperation and progress.

I wish you a successful festival, new discoveries and bright impressions! Forward to new heights and achievements!