Exchange Student from Panthéon-Sorbonne University Shares His Impressions of Ural Federal University

13:59, June 30, 2020

«I would like to mention the rapidity of the measures taken by the Russian government and the University to ensure an easy and comfortable switch to distance education for their students»

Robin Guéguen, a Master's degree student of University Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, studied at UrFU for one semester, from February to June 2020, in the frame of bilateral agreement for student exchange between Ural Federal University and Panthéon-Sorbonne University. His major at home university is Russian history and he was studying at UrFU Department of Russian History.

 «I was the only foreign student at the Department of History for this semester, and the only one asking for classes in English. That's why I would like to thank my teachers Elena Borodina and Aleksandr Palkin, who both arranged their schedules to give me kind of “private lessons” about Russian Imperial History, in English”, said Robin. - Along with the lessons in English, Elena Borodina also developed a course half in English, half in Russian in order to allow me to practice my Russian and to meet other master's students of the Department. The first thing which surprised me, was the postitive classroom atmosphere. The relationships between students and professors were very friendly. We really felt supported by the teachers. The second thing is about students. Following our first meeting, they already took me to a traditional Georgian restaurant. I think it's enough to show how I was welcome».

Robin Guéguen’s mobility program was conducted under specific circumstances due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 that caused a temporary closing of the university for students and transfer to distance learning by the end of March. 

«Due to the spread of coronavirus, the courses was held via Zoom from March and I would like to mention the rapidity of the measures taken by the Russian government and the University to ensure an easy and comfortable switch to distance education for their students», emphasized Robin Guéguen.

As for accommodation in Ekaterinburg, Robin decided to take a flat on his own «to live in Russia as Russians»: «As I am passionate about Russia for almost six years, I have already visited this fascinating country several times, but only for touristic purpose. The reason why I really wanted to be out of the dormitory, was that I wanted to live in Russia as Russians. And I can say I achieved that goal. Taking the bus, going to the bank or to the restaurant, buying groceries at Magnit or Perekrestok and being understood by cashiers, that was the real deal for me and I am happy that I handled it!»

In his feedback Robin Guéguen stressed that in spite of the quarantine measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, he had a very good time in Ekaterinburg:

«Everyone was hospitable and helpful to me, even though they probably didn't always understand me, and I won't forget it. One thing is sure, I will certainly come back!» – summarized the French student.