Hockey Player of the YHL, Defender of SKA-1946 Nikita Kalinin: “UMTE College is the Place Where Friends Are Made”

The university continues to publish interviews with alumni. Today, Nikita Kalinin, a graduate of the university college and a hockey player, answers questions from the university's website editorial team.

Nikita, you are a successful athlete, a hope of the Northwest Youth Hockey League. Why did you choose our college?

– First of all, I chose the specialty of secondary vocational education «Commerce», and this year I graduated and defended my thesis. «Commerce» is a broad concept for me; it’s a field that offers many options for further development. In particular, I plan to pursue higher education in «Public and Municipal Administration». Yes, I will apply to this program at our university. At the time, I chose it for its location—it’s close to home—but during my studies, I truly appreciated it; I liked everything about it, and it resonated with me.

What was your first impression of the college? Did it change during your studies?

– I liked the college from the first day I came here. It just so happened that I got to know almost everyone right away; my classmates are very friendly, and I found common ground with the teachers as well.

What stood out most during your years at the college?

– As an athlete, my schedule is filled with training, games, and trips. Unfortunately, this affected my attendance. What stands out the most is how I sometimes had to improvise, especially during exam periods (smiles). If I could write a letter to my past self now, I would say, «Attend all classes and submit your work on time to avoid problems later». Of course, these memories make me smile now.

Which subject did you enjoy the most? Why?

– I can’t single one out, but I’ll mention «Organization of Commercial Activities» and «Commodity Science», taught by Tatiana Ivanovna Toktarova and Elena Viktorovna Svechinskaya—these two subjects.

As a graduate, what would you recommend changing in the college curriculum?

– I felt that the educational process was organized very well and competently; the teachers are specialists in their field, so I wouldn’t change anything. Overall, I would like to thank the educators and the college director for their wonderful work.

What would you recommend to college students for self-development? Perhaps favorite books or movies?

– Actually, I have many favorite books and movies, but let me recommend two books: Masao Kitami’s «Samurai Without a Sword» and Stephen Covey’s «The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People».

What would you tell your children about the college?

– I would tell them that the college is a place where you make friends who will likely stay with you for a long time. Perhaps even for a lifetime.

Nikita, you are a professional athlete. What about morning exercises?

– My training sessions in the morning are enough for me, so I don’t need morning exercises. We train almost every day, from morning till evening.

What’s on your wish list besides further education at university? Why this?

– Ideally, I would like to win Olympic gold and qualify this year for the leagues and championships I need—KHL and VHL!

Nikita, let’s suppose 10 years have passed, and you’ve been invited to teach at the college. Which subject would you teach?

– For now, I’m only ready to teach physical education. That’s my area; it’s what I understand best. We’ll see beyond that (smiles).

Well, let’s say 15 years have passed, and you’ve been invited to head the college. What would you change or add?

– I think for the benefit of all students, I would start the first class a little later! But I wouldn’t cancel exams for anything. I believe that such control is good experience. Moreover, it helps develop stress resilience in life. It also greatly contributes to developing communication skills, which will undoubtedly be useful for any manager in the future. So no, I definitely wouldn’t cancel exams.

What advice would you give to college students and future graduates?

– Try to worry as little as possible before exams and your thesis defense, because anxiety can throw you off and cloud your mind! It's important to prepare, get enough sleep, and approach the defense calmly and coolly. 

Right now, you can say everything you think about the college. We won’t edit anything; we’ll publish it just like that. 

– And that's good because I can say that the university college is a very good place for education. There are wonderful teachers here who share their experience and knowledge. I am very satisfied with my studies, and as I already mentioned, I will continue my education at the university. 

What is the college to you in one word? 

– The college for me is experience. A wonderful and very useful one! 

Thank you!