'I Would Recommend Studying in Moscow'

Austin Mack, a US student at the HSE master’s programme in mathematics, told us about his impressions of living and studying in Moscow.

— Why did you make a decision to study in the HSE? What was the reaction of your family and friends on that move?

— I took part in the Math in Moscow study abroad programme, supported by HSE, in 2009 while I was an undergraduate studying  in the US. The programme allows English speaking students to study mathematics at the Independent University of Moscow under the Russian mathematics style. So I lived here in 2009 for half a year, and then returned home, USA, to finish my bachelor’s degree. I am currently in the Master programme at HSE. I started this fall, so I am just now starting my second semester

I really enjoyed my time living in Moscow; and the mathematics programme was an amazing experience. When contemplating graduate school options, I was notified of the Master programme at HSE. I thought the opportunity to study at HSE with its amazing mathematics faculty and take part in the mathematics community in Moscow was an opportunity not to pass up. 

My friends and family were shocked about my choice, as it is not common for Americans to go to Russia; but they were very excited about the prospects. They are all interested in the events and activities that I get to take part in while living in Russia.

— What's your impression on life in Moscow?

— I really enjoy the life in Moscow. Living in the Russian capital you are able to take part in many cultural and entertainment activities. There are many aspects of Western culture here, so it is easy for find comforts from home while living abroad in Moscow.

— Do you speak Russian now? Did you study it here? 

— I do speak some Russian. In 2009 I took a course during my study abroad in Moscow. I plan on taking further courses so I will be able to attend lectures and seminars given in Russian. 

— What's your favorite Russian food?

— Borsch is definitely one of my favourite Russian foods. I also really enjoy the large variety of cookies, pastries, and bakery items that cannot be found in the United States.

— Will you recommend studying in Moscow?

— I would recommend studying in Moscow. For students interested in studying mathematics Moscow is a great place. There are many large math faculties at different schools and many institutions that offer seminars, lecture series, and opportunities to participate in the mathematics community.