“I consider Belarus to be my second home”: Master's student from China on her studies at the Academy of Public Administration | en

Studying abroad is an important and responsible step, which not everyone dares to take. On the one hand, this can become an unforgettable experience leading to a prestigious diploma and a chance to build an international career. On the other hand, studying abroad implies the difficulties of relocation, the adaptation process, and a language barrier. In our new series of interviews we ask international students to share their reasons for choosing the Academy of Public Administration as well as the challenges they face living and studying abroad.

Li Jia, our first respondent, is a first-year master's student at the Academy of Public Administration. The young girl came fr om China to gain knowledge in the field of public administration and economics. She successfully combines her studies and work in one of the prestigious international companies. In the interview, Li Jia told why she considers Belarus to be her second home, what training at the academy has given her and how she copes with the language barrier.

Studying for Master's Degree

I am pursuing a Master's degree in Public Administration and Economics. I chose this speciality because it directly relates to my work. I learned about the possibility of taking a postgraduate course at this Academy from my teacher in the People's Republic of China. As for the differences in the education process in China and Belarus, I should say that while in China the emphasis is mostly on theoretical aspects, here in Belarus the experienced lectures focus a lot on putting the theory to practice. Also, I have noted that students here in Belarus are more active in discussing the topics, expressing their opinions and trying to delve into problems.

Working in Belarus

I work as the Chief Representative of the Chinese state-owned company Joc Great Wall Corporation in the Republic of Belarus. Our company is associated with investing in Belarus, and we also import Belarusian goods to China. This area is interesting to me. Working in a foreign country provides me with an invaluable experience, allows me to discover and learn a lot for myself, and my studies for a Master's degree at the Academy of Public Administration is a valuable contribution in the process.

Living in Belarus

I can truly call this country my second home. During my studies here, I met many interesting people, made friends, got imbued with Minsk and the national characteristics of the Belarusians. Of course, I miss home, but I am very glad that I have the opportunity to study and live in this country.

Overcoming language barrier and studying the Russian language

It is still very difficult for me to speak Russian. Grammar is particularly difficult for me to master. However, all my colleagues are Belarusians: they help me with training. If they hear me mispronounce words, scramble words in a sentence, or any other inadequacies – they are always ready to assist me in fixing it all up. This is really helpful. In addition, I find myself in an environment wh ere the Russian language occupies a central place: it surrounds me not only at work, but also when I go shopping or just walking the streets. Being in a natural language environment fosters your urge to learn the new language as soon as possible, to improve your speech, and to increase your language level.

Giving suggestions to those wishing to study in Belarus

I think that if a person has the opportunity to study abroad, then it must be taken advantage of. It is very exciting to try something new, to get to know the world and yourself. I would like to wish everyone who considers studying in Belarus to work for this worthy goal and to apply to the Academy of Public Administration. Here I learned to plan my time and analyze what is happening. Also, studying at the Academy gave me new knowledge, which I am already applying in my work. Therefore, if you have a desire to come to Belarus, then be sure to try, and you will succeed.