Testimonials
The reasons that underpinned my decision to take part in the summer school were the international outlook of the program, the involvement of leading professors in the educational process, the visit to industrial facilities and the chance to be exposed to the Russian culture in a vibrant city as Saint-Petersburg. I am delighted that all professors, as I expected, were very knowledgeable, open-minded and positively-oriented, and also very eager to transfer their knowledge in a non-traditional (more interactive) way. Furthermore, the visit of some large electricity generation (Rosenergoatom, the branch of Leningradskaya NPP) and turbine manufacturing (REP Holding) sites was undoubtedly a cornerstone in terms of providing additional added value to the program. In addition, for the positive outcome of the school contributed the big variety of cultural activities organized during the stay. For instance, the excursions to the world-renowned The State Hermitage Museum and Peterhof Palace, and the boat trip along the Neva river were absolutely marvelous. Last but not least, all program coordinators were extremely supportive and always ready to help throughout the entire program, which has made the stay even more delightful. So this is my impression of the summer school in a nutshell. Hopefully, it will suit your needs. Please let me know if there is anything else that I have forgotten. Also, I believe that this type of international programmes are not only about acquiring new knowledge, experiencing the life in a new country with a different culture, but also about establishing new professional contacts. Hence, I am hoping that we will manage to keep our contacts successfully in the future as well. Since I don't have all the contacts of your university colleagues who have been involved in the summer school (and I don't want to miss anyone), please say hello to them from me. Lastly, I wish you a great success to all your current and future endeavours.
I had the opportunity to make summer school first where I discovered SPB as well as the university. It was amazing experience of 3 weeks which make me follow the IBS program then. During IBS semester I could notice the high work experience from teachers and I was really happy with the fact that any help could be provided by administrative offices or by the teachers themselves! To conclude, following my studies in SPB was a great and an amazing experience that still keep helping me in my work or studies in my native country and I'm now able to understand better this wonderful Eastern culture!
Performing an academic exchange in Russia was not in my closest plans, however, when this opportunity came up I did not think twice. It was an amazing experience, since from the environment, experience in the university, the lectures, staff, until the cultural activities that the university gave us and also the friends we made during this period. I recommend it to everyone, the academic and cultural knowledge are highly rewarding, and St. Petersburg is a sensational and amazing city, full of histories that delight our eyes.
It was a wonderful experience, which I would do again, surely. Landscapes and city that, covered by snow, had a magical side. I appreciated the various activities offered by the university and the volunteers, always available and friendly.
Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University Summer School gave me one of the best summer holidays I have ever had! From learning Russian, to improving myself on my field; from new friendships, to adventures in a new country and culture, with one word, it was "amazing!" I am still in touch with the people I get to know there and I can assure, for those who are considering to join, even 1 month will not be enough!