The dual Russo-Finnish master’s program with Lapeenranta University of Technology opens up the opportunity for SUSU students to receive international education. Pavel Buzin, who studied in a master’s program in Finland for a year, shared his experiences.
– Why did you decide to participate in the program?
– I believe in renewable energy sources and their development, so I wanted to find out how other countries look at the prospects of using solar energy. The program has existed 5 years already and students in the later courses told me about it. Luckily, there is a partnership between SUSU and Lapeenranta University of Technology and I had a chance to study in Finland. I completed the documents, took an English test, verified my excellent academic performance, and, since there are no entrance exams, they accepted me on those terms.
– What were your first impressions on Finland? How does education there differ from Russian education?
– Before this I had never been in Europe, and it was an interesting experience. There are definitely differences. At a minimum, the fact that there is no schedule, there are no groupmates, and no groups. You just register for courses, a part of which are compulsory and chosen by your advisor, and the other part you choose yourself. It was mostly theory, there weren’t many calculations or practical lessons. Nonetheless, this theory helps you analyze and understand how things are built and think more globally.
– What did this experience give you? Would you tell other students to try out this program?
I didn’t know about a lot of things before I went to Finland. It is worth going there if there is any chance to go. In my 6 years of study, I have traveled to China within this program, and if I had been more active, I would have participated in other international programs. This is a plus for self-development and for my future career. This experience was not in vain.