1. Why did you decide to apply to the Dual Degree Programme with the National Research University of St. Petersburg - Higher School of Economics during “GG”?

I decided to apply almost immediately after I found out that it would mean that I would specialize in Political Science, a topic I’ve grown to be more and more curious about while I was in Global Governance. Getting an additional degree and the chance to move to St. Petersburg for a year were definitely factors as well.

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2. What were the main challenges you had to overcome during the double degree programme?

The increased at-home workload was a shock at first, as we had to do a lot of readings and write a lot of papers but with time it became a habit and led to the discovery of amazing places to read and write around the city. The winter took a massive toll on my mental health, as it was cold and windy, and the sun would set quite early.

 

3. Tell us more about the university in Russia, which courses did you take? Did you learn Russian? In what extra-activities were you involved?

I took many courses including Categories of Political Science, Contemporary Russian Politics, Ethnicity Religion and Politics, Anti-Corruption Policies, and Policy analysis. Besides, I took political and economic anthropology as a minor. I loved writing papers for the minor, doing research entailed going into the city and observing my surroundings. 

I did learn Russian! I had intense 3-hour classes twice a week, as it is quite a different language from what I know.

I was in the hiking club, but, sadly due to having classes on Saturdays, I did not get to join them quite often, but I really loved it when I did, hiking outside the city through the forests was an amazing experience.

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4. What is your fondest memory of those months?

My friends and I went on a short trip to Murmansk in January, we got to see the Northern Lights, the Arctic Ocean, a snow desert, and about 100 Siberian Huskies. It was a trip filled with magic and I will always cherish it.

 

5. How did this experience help you in growing up from a personal and academic point of view?

Academically, I learned a lot from being more independent, the program has a relatively large number of students compared to GG, and while the teachers and professors are ready to help you if you need it, we were expected to be on top of our tasks each week. In addition, thanks to the research seminars and the enormous amount of papers I had to write, the quality of my writing has drastically improved, and I learned how to properly research topics, which proved handy for both of my theses. 

Personally, I gained a lot from living in Saint Petersburg, I got to see so many beautiful and significant things, I grew a lot from living by myself, and I learned Russian!! It was so unfortunate to have to leave suddenly due to COVID-19, but I am definitely going back when I can. 

 

6. Would you recommend this experience to GG students? Do you have any advice for them?

100%! It is definitely a demanding experience but it is filled with so much growth. The teachers and professors are excellent and will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to move forward academically. Also, Saint Petersburg is ridiculously beautiful and is a wonderful place to live in. 

I would advise my fellow GG students to get their tasks done as early as possible, that way they don’t pile up, and you end up with more time to see amazing things! Whether they be amazing sites within the city or beyond it. Russia is a big country and has a lot to offer, it would be great if you take advantage of that. Also, try Georgian food. You have to.

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We are very proud of your achievements Sadeen, and we wish you the best of luck for whatever will come next!