‘Be Mindful to Enjoy Your Life at HSE University’

Photo courtesy of Le Nhat Truong

Le Nhat Truong, from Vietnam, is a first-year student of the HSE Master’s Programme 'Science of Learning and Assessment.' He spoke to the HSE News Service about his motivation for studying in Moscow, how research projects enrich his academic journey, and the role education plays in social transformation.

My Motivation for Studying at HSE University

There were several reasons behind my decision to study in Moscow. One of the most important was the unique academic opportunities offered by HSE University, especially in the field of learning sciences and assessment.

HSE’s strong international reputation and its balance of theory and applied research aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals

Moscow itself is a vibrant, dynamic city, rich in history, architecture, and intellectual life. Living here has been both inspiring and stimulating. I was also excited to experience Russian culture firsthand and to explore education from a cross-cultural perspective.

My goal for my master’s degree has been focused on education and psychology.

The SOLA programme offers well-structured courses and practical tools for research and assessment, which match my interests

Secondly, the programme is hosted by HSE, which I knew had a vibrant international student community. Studying in such an environment not only helps with adapting to life abroad but also creates opportunities to collaborate with professors and peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Photo courtesy of Le Nhat Truong

This is my first year in Moscow, so I have little understanding of how other universities are. I believe that each of them has their own unique values that their students can be proud of.

For me, HSE’s internationality and its ability to provide HSE students with a sense of inclusion are what stand out

The Science of Education

To me, education is a powerful means of social transformation.

It helps bridge the gap between more and less developed regions and motivates people to strive for a better future

With the world’s politics shifting unpredictably, an emphasis on education and knowledge exchange is more crucial than ever. My personal research also focuses on cross-cultural views in higher education.

My experience in the SOLA programme has been wonderful so far. The courses are well-designed, offering a strong balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. I especially appreciate the focus on research design and data analysis.

The communication and support from faculty and staff have also stood out—they are approachable, encouraging, and always willing to help

The programme is well-organised, and the hybrid format has been effectively implemented to ensure that both online and offline students receive equal attention and support.

My Studies: Challenges and Impressions

Regarding challenges in my studies, I have to be honest that assessment in education and psychology was not my major for the bachelor’s degree. And for that, I found it super difficult to learn mathematical formulas and calculations for assessment. However, the lecturers at the Institute of Education are always supportive and open to discussion to help us better understand the courses.

I am excited and nervous at the same time when it comes to new knowledge offered by the programme, but always ready to face challenges

Thanks to the lecturers, I know I don’t have to walk alone in this journey.

As for memorable moments, I am still impressed with many of our presentations for the groupwork. Before each presentation, My groupmates and I are always anxious that our preparation will not be enough in terms of knowledge, structure, and visual design. But I am grateful that we have lecturers like Alina Ivanova (my supervisor) with Psychometrics courses, Daria Gracheva with Research Seminars, Diana Akhmedjanova with Research Methods in Psychology, Elen Yusupova with Statistics, and others. They have always devoted their full attention with supporting attitudes and constructive comments on our presentations. They are not just professional in their work but also give students a sense of belonging.

Among all the courses, Statistics and the Research Seminar were the most impactful for me

These courses not only challenged me but also equipped me with tools that are essential for conducting meaningful research. I particularly valued the focus on real applications and the step-by-step guidance on how to conduct empirical studies.

Unfortunately, I could not devote much time to learning Russian during my studies here. But thanks to help and enthusiasm from colleagues and my friends at the institute and my dormitory, I know some very basic words and phrases for daily communication.

In the future, learning more Russian would one of my priorities when living here

Although it’s still too early to see long-term effects, I can already feel myself becoming more disciplined, adaptable, and independent each day. I’ve learned to build friendships across nationalities and embrace new perspectives both in daily life and academic situations, all of which have deepened my intercultural competence and resilience.

My Leisure and Extracurricular Life

Besides my academic schedule, I often go sightseeing and training with my friends.

Moscow is a beautiful city with lots of parks and lakes you can visit to let your hair down after working days

I love how peaceful it is to enjoy the nature and the atmosphere with my friends when wandering in these places. And on a weekly basis, I take part in training activities at a martial arts club near my dormitory. Regular practice not only helps improve my physical health, but alongside with talking to local friends, also lifts me up when I’m feeling down. I keep up to date about HSE football and other sports activities and look forward to chances to participate.

Another highlight of my experience studying at the Institute of Education is that they offer numerous exciting academic and professional development opportunities outside the classroom. I had the chance to attend research events and conferences, including those organised in English for PhD students, which gave me valuable insights into current research trends and presentation skills. I also joined a research project related to school leadership and am currently participating in another project within the institute.

These experiences have enriched my academic journey, and I feel fortunate to be part of a faculty that is so active and supportive of student involvement in research

Advice to Prospective Students

For students planning to study on the SOLA programme, I hope that you can be open-minded and ready to engage with both theory and practice. You should also take advantage of the diverse international community, where you will learn as much from your peers as from your professors. Thirdly, from my own experiences, don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help, because everyone here is supportive. And finally, be mindful to enjoy your life at HSE and in Moscow!