I have studied both in Western European and American universities for my Bachelor' degree; for the Master's program, I wanted to study in another region of the world. My choice, very logically, was Russia. I wanted to combine two of my passions, Geology and Economics (Russia is well known for Oil & Gas and its very specific Geology), and if possible in English with a course on Russian as a Foreign Language. The only Master's Program I found in Russia matching my dream was the Oil and Gas Management Master's at the NSU Economics Faculty. I am often asked, "Oh my, isn't there a big difference with Western Europe and the U.S.?" I answer, "There is a difference, but the quality isn't any lower". So far, it is one of the richest years in my life in terms of academic knowledge, discovering new educational methods & systems and also in terms of cultural and social differences. The differences are sometimes wide, it is true. But what I learned here more than anywhere is that differences are very beneficial because you learn how to adapt, and it broadens your mind and your spirit. Nothing in the world would make me regret this choice to involve myself into this new life project, studying in NSU and living in a little, warm, scientific town, truly the heart of knowledge in Siberia, Akademgorodok".

I am a proud citizen of my country Nigeria and came from a family of 5 children, 2 boys and 3 girls. Since childhood I've been passionate about a future career in medicine which is the reason why I am here in Russia, to fulfill my ambition. I heard about Russia from different people in my country and I always wanted to be here someday.
It is a great opportunity that not everyone is privileged to have - to be at NSU. When I started studying at NSU I was a bit lazy at first but after a while, I got into the habit of regular reading and hard work, this is the impact that NSU has made in my life.

I participated in the geology field training in the Altai to make progress in Russian, to acquire some professional vocabulary, and to learn more about the geology of these Mountains.
During the two weeks in the middle of mountain ranges, in a magical environment, my expectations were exceeded! The recent finds (the Quaternary period) indicate a very different geological history than the Alps. Knowing this will allow me to pause and remain critical when studying other rock outcrops that I will probably encounter in the future during my research.
I was greeted very well as soon as I arrived at Novosibirsk airport, and accompanied for the administrative formalities. The professors and students were very friendly, patient and ready to discuss many different subjects. So, one can learn a lot about geology, but also about culture, the Siberian point of view, current and old ways of life.
In summary, I loved it and I recommend it!