Gambian Student Mam Isatou Njie: “I Have an Incredible Group of Russian and International Friends in ICEF”
Mam Isatou Njie is 21. Born in West Africa’s Gambia, she can be well considered an authentic Moscow resident now that she entered her fourth year of ICEF International Bachelor’s Programme in Economics and Finance. Here’s Mam about the essential things to know about living and studying in Moscow, ways to get a tuition discount, and the Russian celebration she likes best.
How did you learn about ICEF and why did you choose to study here?
While in school, I was thirsty for knowledge—a bright student interested in finance and economics. My ambition was to start university at 16, but the first thing was, of course, to graduate high school. When I did, I worked for a year in my home country and then, following my father’s advice, started a course in Russian with HSE International Prep Year. It allowed me to get enrolled in ICEF, which, again, was recommended by my father as a prestigious college with reputable track record globally.
How did the admission process go?
It was organized just perfectly and went easy for me. I didn’t face any difficulties at that stage.
How would you describe the study process here? What seems easy, what seems hard?
Studying at ICEF is challenging and enriching. Challenging because it requires intensive effort, and sometimes your effort seems to be never enough no matter how hard you try. Enriching because you come to use all your resources and capabilities to make things finally start working for you.
In my first year I was really struggling with Mathematical Analysis and Introductory Probability Theory & Statistics. That was because I came with insufficient background in math. Was too focused on my GCSE and A-LEVEL Cambridge exam. Therefore my advice to everyone: study outside of class to work on your math.
What helped you cope and eventually qualify for partial discount on your tuition fee? I know you’ve maintained eligibility for two years in a row.
I learned about the discount scheme from friends and decided to find out more about its eligibility criteria. A grant of a 45% discount in my third year came as a big surprise. All I did was try to do my best, hoping for the best, and suddenly I qualify for as high as 45%.
I continued to stick to this strategy throughout my third year, trying to do my best, attending all classes, doing homework and preparing for seminars in advance. It helped—I still qualify for my discount. And overall, I now feel a stronger personality, my first two years here taught me how to fight challenges.
What is your dorm life like?
I live in a two-room furnished flat in Level Amurskaya (available to ICEF students for rent). Living with flatmates wasn’t easy in the beginning, but I’m fine now, making the most of what I’ve got. My roommate Rayana is from Kazakhstan and we’re best friends. I am very happy to know her.
The rent costs RUB 15,500 a month, utility services RUB 500 to 1,500. I spend RUB 2,500 to 3,000 per week on groceries, and RUB 800 monthly on my mobile plan. My coursebooks are free.
Sharing a dorm with students from different countries must be a good way to improve your Russian and English skills. Are you a fluent speaker of Russian?
I can read and write—I learned these basic skills in prep school—but understanding Russian still seems difficult.
I strongly recommend all international students who are planning to study here to learn at least a little Russian before coming. This will make your stay much easier.
Language barrier can be a serious obstacle in peer communication, given that some people here may not be able to communicate what they think in English. And because I’m not a confident speaker of Russian, I am missing out on the on-campus life and student societies I would’ve otherwise joined. Because they mostly use Russian.
What do you think is special about living in Russia? What’s the first thing you’d tell your family about life here?
The number one thing for me in Russia is people and social milieu. When I finally let go of my trait of being reserved and started to meet people, my life changed for so much better. I’m always keen to talk with friends. I have an incredible group of Russian and international friends, and I very much enjoy singing karaoke with them.
Which of the Russian traditions seems to be most fascinating?
Christmas and New Year celebrations. Pretty decorations everywhere, people giving gifts to one another, elevated mood… Celebrating New Year and Christmas at my friends’ family homes is one of my best memories.
Another thing I like about Moscow is that it offers the most possible variety and choice of cuisines.
Despite all challenges, you’re doing well as you approach completion of your bachelor’s study. What is your plan after graduation?
I’m planning to do a master’s. Not sure about where, but it has to be a place with an option for working alongside academic studies, so that I could gain experience while upgrading my qualification.
Thank you very much for your honest and exhaustive answers. Good luck.