My name is Wayne Otieno Ochieng. I am a 22-year-old university student of International Relations and Diplomacy, currently in my third year at the University of Nairobi. I was born in Nairobi, where I still live. I also take the Russian language course at the Saint Petersburg State University, having recently completed the A2 level exam days ago. I am particularly interested in sports, and as such, my interests include playing football, exercising and swimming, in addition to watching sports.
I initially learned about Saint Petersburg University online through a post describing their outreach to students from other African countries. Upon further research, I also came across the university’s reputation as one of the best in Russia until I ultimately saw the call for applications for the TORFL program for Kenyan students, through the Russian Embassy in Kenya account.
I am very interested in learning about the diverse countries and cultures that the world has to offer. I took a keen interest in European history and culture, and particularly the various contributions that the various countries have had to offer in the history of the world in general. Russia in particular has made an indelible mark on global history, and I was interested in Russia as a country because of its history and the cultures that make the country what it is. I took up the SPbU course as it was the one that reached back upon my application, and it offered a unique chance to learn.
I have found the classes very convenient and the education process very efficient and easy going. As a result, I very much liked the course. The timetable has been convenient for me and I have had ease accessing the lesson materials.
The only notable challenge has been the difference in certain aspects between the English and Swahili languages, which are my first and native languages, and the Russian language grammar. It takes time to get acquainted with these differences, especially with the verb aspects (HCB/CB), but with enough practice I have managed to improve and get better over time.
The lesson content has covered the vast majority of the basics so far including the grammar basics and the important aspects of communication that are necessary for the foundation of learning the Russian language. I can therefore quite confidently say that my expectations have been met.
It is my intention to keep learning Russian, as I believe it will open up many opportunities for me, especially with the degree I am pursuing. My country thrives on mutual cooperation with allies from different parts of the world, and the skill I am acquiring could be beneficial in bringing our two countries closer. I am also of the belief that it will open up more opportunities for me both here in Kenya and possibly in Russia.