Education
- Kaluga State University, bachelor in Teaching English and French
Scientific and teaching activity
- NOU DO "Lingvist", Kaluga (2018-2020), teacher of English and French
- Tutor in English and French since 2019
Travels and educational trips
- Preliminary consultation
Getting to know the mentor
What do you do at UniPage?
My primary responsibility is to handle incoming requests, be it applications on our website or messages via instant messengers. Together with applicants and their parents, we adhere to general admission requirements and consider budgetary constraints, while also discussing academic accomplishments and additional study preferences. After that, I explain how our company can assist them in their unique circumstances. For many, the process is incomprehensible, yet exciting.
I joined UniPage in 2022, during a time of great global instability. Every conversation started with the question, "Is it even possible to study abroad now?" It is gratifying to serve as a partial psychologist in such situations, offering reassurance that numerous educational opportunities around the world remain accessible to Russian students.
What is the hardest part of your job?
At first, it was difficult to manage a high volume of incoming requests. I can handle the flow better now, but explaining all the processes in straightforward terms is often challenging. People are only starting to acquaint themselves with foreign education systems and are not yet familiar with many of the nuances. Fortunately, my background as an educator allows me to explain the admission process using a relatable approach, devoid of complex words and terminology.
What is the question most frequently asked by applicants?
Perhaps the question most commonly asked by applicants revolves around free education and scholarships. Unfortunately, entirely free tuition and accommodation waivers are not usually available. Nuances always exist. But together with applicants and parents, we explore budgetary options that they had not previously considered. It is noteworthy that some ultimately opt for these alternatives.
Why did you choose to learn Italian and French?
Upon admission to the faculty of foreign languages at my university, it was mandatory for everyone to choose a second language. At the time, my knowledge of French consisted of merely three words, yet I was always captivated by its melodic nature. As a result, I decided to join the French department. Given that the goal of the program was to produce teachers of French, the study of the language was immediately thorough. It was difficult at first, due to the stark contrast in phonetics compared to English — a language I had previously studied. But by the end of the first year, constant practice began to bear fruit.
As for my decision to learn Italian, it came independently at a later period in life. Similar to French, I was drawn to its enchanting sound and the rich culture associated with the country as a whole. My current Italian proficiency remains basic, though I have plans to advance my skills to a higher level in the future.
Why did you decide to help students study abroad?
My interest in the culture underlying the English language was piqued when we began learning it at school. I found myself captivated by its nuances, both distinct from and resonant with my native tongue. Exploring holidays, regional idiosyncrasies, art, mentality, and diverse ways of life in other countries has always fascinated me.
Later, I began to learn about exchange programs. But they seemed to be something distant and not very accessible.
Only at the end of my university studies did I delve into the topic of education abroad — looking through various webinars, pages on social media. It was during this time that I discovered the existence of agencies where specialists help in the complex process of admission; the idea of becoming part of such a team came to my mind.
I sincerely believe that studying in another country can open up incredible prospects for people, regardless of their chosen destination for future living.
What did you do before joining UniPage?
I worked as a foreign language teacher, first at a language school and later exclusively offering private lessons. Right now, I continue teaching an adult student who aspires to master French for personal enrichment and future travels to the country.
At some point, I realized my desire to leave teaching as a pleasurable hobby. As my main activity, I sought to explore other areas where I could leverage my skills and desire to help people. This led to my journey at UniPage.
Tell us about your internship/study/work experience abroad.
During my university years, I had the chance to visit France for an internship — my role involved teaching French to refugees. It proved to be an extraordinary experience, allowing me to not only contribute to their language education, but also immerse myself in the rich culture of the country. The majority of our time was spent exploring the captivating southern region. Although this remains my sole international journey thus far, I intend to go to many other countries in the future.
Do you have a notable story from working with students?
There are a few notable stories that come to mind, but one particular situation stands out vividly. I received a phone call from a mother who had just begun exploring study abroad opportunities for her child. The consultation lasted a mere ten minutes. However, the mother expressed her gratitude saying, "Thank you so much, you explained everything so clearly!" At first glance, this may seem like a simple occurrence. But it’s always nice to help others draw up the big picture during preliminary consultations, even before they engage with specialized experts in their desired fields of study.
How do you relax or spend your free time?
I like to draw, watch movies, chat with friends, and read. With many interests at my disposal, I always find something enjoyable to occupy my free time.
List of educational institutions with successful enrollment
University | Country | Degree | Specialty |
---|---|---|---|
New admission |