FINDING PURPOSE ABROAD: A STUDENT’S JOURNEY FROM CÔTE D’IVOIRE

What is it like to move fr om the hot climate of Africa to the frosty weather of Russia? How do these countries differ? How can one find their path in a foreign country? Medical Institute student Ali Koné, who came to study with us from Côte d’Ivoire, shared his experience. All the details were gathered by Yaroslava Pangaeva.

— Why did you choose Ogarev Mordovia State University?
- According to my friends, it offers a high-quality education, a solid academic foundation, and international programs that enable foreign students to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies. In my country, doctors are in great demand. I want to be useful to people—bringing them healing, comfort, and hope.

— How is your country different from Russia?
- Unlike Russia, Côte d’Ivoire has a different climate, culture, and way of life. It is warm all year round, and we never have snow. Fur coats, warm jackets, scarves, hats, skis, and skates—these are things I had never seen in Africa.

We celebrate holidays like Independence Day (my country was a French colony until 1960), Easter, and Christmas with great enthusiasm. These holidays are marked by colorful parades, dancing, and concerts. Many of our customs and festivities are accompanied by traditional dances and rituals that are not found in Russia.

As for food, we prepare dishes such as attieke (cassava couscous), alloco (fried plantains), and seafood soups. It is also customary in our culture to hold large family meals outdoors.

— What difficulties did you face during your studies? Were you able to overcome them?
- The biggest challenge was overcoming the language barrier, even though I had studied Russian for quite a long time. In real-life situations, it was difficult to understand spoken language. I began watching more films and reading books in Russian, interacting with Russian-speaking students, and playing games in Russian. These efforts helped me adapt more quickly.

It was also difficult to get used to winter and the cold climate, but over time I learned how to dress properly and take care of my health during the winter season—after all, I am a future doctor. Overall, everything is fine now.

— What are your hobbies?
- In addition to my studies, I enjoy music and sports. I play football and can draw. In Côte d’Ivoire, football is not just a sport but a part of the culture, and I’m glad that many people in Russia also love this game. Sometimes I take part in interuniversity sports events, wh ere I make new friends.

I also joined the executive council responsible for developing the 2025 work plan for our university’s African Club. We are in charge of strategic planning and coordination of activities aimed at fostering cooperation and developing initiatives within the club.

— What advice would you give to other students at Ogarev University?
- Don’t be afraid to step outside your social circle. Take an active part in university events and try to learn more about different cultures. This will not only help you academically but also make your university experience brighter and more meaningful.

Published in «Voice of Mordovian University» newspaper, No. 6 — June 27, 2025