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Warda Tariq, from Pakistan, completed her Master’s in Data Science at HSE University–Moscow in 2024. She is now undertaking a PhD at the Faculty of Computer Science while working remotely as an AI/ML developer. Warda spoke to the HSE News Service about blending theory and practice, what an HSE education provides apart from academic knowledge, and her advice for making the most of university.

Anna Gonzales, a Peruvian graduate of the School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at HSE University, completed her Master’s in International Business in 2024. Currently based in Moscow, she works remotely as Marketing Team Lead at Digital Tide, an international IT company. In this interview, Anna reflects on her academic journey at HSE University. From landing her first job as a student to advancing through roles in marketing and technology, Anna shares her insights on cross-cultural collaboration and the lasting value of her HSE education.

In October 2025, more than 200 international students began their studies on HSE University’s International Preparatory Year. After a month of rigorous in-class learning, they gathered for a more informal event—the Russian Speaking Club—where they met classmates from other groups. The HSE University News Service spoke with students, teachers, and administrators about the programme’s progress and expansion.

On October 10, 2025, the central atrium of HSE University’s Pokrovka campus hosted the Day of Russian Culture. Students of HSE International Prep Year programme had the opportunity to explore Russia’s traditions, art, and customs, as well as sample national delicacies. As always, the event was organised by HSE University’s Support and Career Centre for International Students and Alumni.

On October 9–10, the first-ever HSE International Alumni Reunion brought together graduates from various cohorts and programmes—now working in Russia and abroad—along with representatives of HSE University and its industry partners. The event included a tour of the campus, a business game, and a cultural festival. The participants exchanged experiences, reflected on their career paths, and discussed labour market challenges.

Expert sessions, an introduction to Russian culture, and international networking—on September 17–22, Nizhny Novgorod hosted the World Youth Festival Assembly. It united more than two thousand people from 120 countries and various Russian regions and universities, including HSE University–St Petersburg.

Practicing and teaching yoga, chilling in Moscow parks, writing academic papers, travelling around Russia, and volunteering—these are only a few of the things HSE international students have tried over their summer break. Now, as they are getting back to studies, the students reflect on their summer experiences in academic work, professional development, travel, and leisure.

On September 1, campuses across Russia ring in the new academic year with the traditional ‘first bell’—flowers for teachers and welcomes for first‑years—while international students at HSE University share how studies begin in their home countries, from Ghana’s Akwaba week to China’s student club fair, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s blue-and-white uniforms, and India’s Teachers’ Day.

Gideon Apomasu, from Ghana, West Africa, has recently graduated from the HSE University Master’s programme in Population and Development at the Faculty of Social Sciences. He talked to the HSE News Service about his impressions and experience of living in Moscow, being part of the HSE student community, and his future career plans.

Shallu Tomar, from Delhi, India, is a student of the Master’s in Population and Development. In her interview with the HSE News Service, Shallu talks about her decision to choose HSE University, her academic experience, and the importance of study–life balance.