Chepaikina, Aleksandra – Russia / International Trade

1. Please introduce yourself (background, interests, your MBTI, and so on)

Hey, my name is Aleksandra, but everybody calls me Sasha. It’s the shortened version of my name~ I’m from Siberia, Russia and my hometown is near Lake Baikal. I had my bachelor's degree in Saint Petersburg in Management and decided to come to Korea for my master's degree. Now I’m a 3rd-semester student in International Trade. And my MBTI is ENTP!

2. Can you tell us the reason why you chose to study at Sogang GSIS?

When I was having my bachelor's program, my friend came to Korea to get her master’s degree and when I saw her stories on Instagram I was dreaming about coming to Korea too. She was a student of Sogang GSIS too. I really liked what she was saying about the university and student life. Also, I really liked the campus. It is small but cozy, and it feels very comfortable to be on the territory of the university.

3. How do you usually spend your spare time in Korea?

I really love Seoul city, so it feels just walking around the streets really fulfills my interests. But I also enjoy visiting other cities nearby Seoul, such as Ansan and Anyang. This year I decided to go to exhibitions and I found it's amusing, even if I don't know exactly about the artist. And of course, I like meeting with my friends and visiting pretty cafes, which I found there are lot in Korea!

4. Can you recommend your favorite place/spot in Seoul?

There are two of my favorites. The first one is Seoul Forest. You will find out a lot of beautiful places around and the forest itself is really pretty. You can even see deers in the area! The second area is Cheongdam. Personally this district reminds me of Europe. It's really quiet with lots of small and cozy cafes.

5. Any recommendations or know-how on life in Korea?

I think everyone's experience might be different, so it's hard to share advice. But I think if you are respectful of Korean culture, other people, and know the basics of Korean language, you will be okay!

6. Can you share your most memorable experience at Sogang GSIS with us?

For me it was the major party. I could meet one of my closest friends there. We don’t usually meet a lot of people if we don’t have classes together but thanks to that evening, I could talk with a lot of people from GSIS! I liked that all of us spent time together, ate delicious foods and shared stories of our own lives. Also it was interesting to talk with professors!

7. Do you have any advice for the prospective students at Sogang GSIS?

Don’t worry too much, don’t be scared, and be open to new opportunities! Students council, administrative office, and professors will help you out if you would have any questions. You will meet a lot of new people from all over the world and have a lot of beautiful memories that’s exciting.

8. Do you have anything to say to Sogang GSIS?

I'm really thankful for all memories I'm having in Sogang GSIS. I want to thank you for taking care of international students. To be honest, I was worrying about going to the university abroad. Even if I knew that I can handle it, moving to another country was stressful. Anyway, now I really feel happy in here. Thank you!