First-Year Students about the University: «The University Can Reveal Your Potential»

If you found the stories of our first-year students interesting and useful, we offer one more interview. Vera Agarkova, a student of the «Economics and Finance», shared her thoughts on adapting to new student life and much more.

- Why did you choose to enroll at UMTE? How did you select your future specialization? 

- I applied to our university through an internal exam. Prior to that, I studied at the UMTE College, so it felt more comfortable to continue my education here. I studied for an economic profession at the College, and that’s why I decided to continue further studies in economics.

- What challenges did you face during your adaptation to university life? 

- Probably with the online courses. At the very beginning, I had no idea what they were all about and why we were studying partially online. Later, of course, it became more familiar. I also found it somewhat challenging to engage in activities, for example, registering for external events.

- What impressions of student life have you formed over the year? 

- This year has been very eventful. I was surprised that student life could be so interesting and diverse. Now I can say that I achieved everything thanks to the numerous activities at the university.

- In which of these activities have you participated, and what new things did you discover at the university?

- I discovered a lot of new things. For instance, I joined the Student Pedagogical Team «Teplo», participated in many forums, entered a scientific paper competition, wrote articles, and attended the Curators' School. I also took part in many other events. And I can say that throughout my studies, I will discover even more activities and opportunities.

- How has your vision of your future career changed after the first year of study? 

- Actually, at this point, I can't confidently say that I want to work in my profession; on the contrary, I want to try myself in different areas. However, this does not affect my choice of specialization at the university, which I am satisfied with. I just realized that I do not want to settle for just one thing.

- Which aspects of university life exceeded your expectations, and which disappointed you? 

- I was surprised by student life as a whole; the university activities exceeded all my expectations. I never thought I would bond so well with my group; I didn’t anticipate that we would meet so often outside of university.  Disappointment hasn’t come into my life yet, and probably, I didn’t have high expectations to be disappointed. I only thought about studying at the university and how challenging and interesting it would be. But I never considered how my values would change. Of course, I don’t forget about my study, but I don’t focus only on it.

- What advice would you give to prospective students starting their university journey? 

- I would advise them to get involved in university life, join student organizations, and make new acquaintances. However, I think it’s best not to take on everything at once, but to try things gradually. Don’t shut yourself off; the university can reveal your potential and give you the opportunity to realize your potential. Education not only provides the chance to gain knowledge but also allows you to postpone adult life. Youth is often something that our parents and grandparents talk about with pleasant euphoria; it's cherished as fond memories. Create your own memories to share in the future. So, enjoy it because you only live once! 

The interview was prepared by Samantha Shvartsaite, a student majoring in «Media Communications».