ASU student participated in Winter Academy 2017 in Berlin
The Winter Academy 2017 dedicated to the discussion of new pattern of relations between the European Union and Russia took place in Berlin, Germany on 20–25 February. Alina Ilyinykh, a second year student of the Faculty of History at Altai State University majoring in international relations, attended the event.
– What was the format of the Winter Academy? What questions did you discuss?
– The event was held in a format of lectures and seminars. The lectures were carried out by both Russian and German experts and public officials. In the course of discussion we touched upon different aspects of relations between the European Union and Russia: migration, economic issues, sanctions. Attention was also paid to the situation in Syria, Iran and Ukraine. Of course, we elaborated on the possible ways for improvement of relations between the EU and Russia.
– Did the Winter Academy 2017 help you develop skills that are important for the future career?
– Absolutely. Firstly, I’ve learned how to communicate with officials. When you understand that the level of event is high, you start asking the speakers more accurate questions. Secondly, I’ve acquired the analytical skill. We were provided with a great amount of data to analyze, and we were afraid of leaving something significant out of account. Moreover, I had a chance to practice the language.
– Did you get on well with your colleagues?
– I met a lot of interesting people, who have become my friends. I still keep in touch with the academy participants from the different regions of Russia. I am glad that we shared our knowledge with each other and continue to do it. When I was in Berlin, I made notes of every piece of advice they gave me, because all of my colleagues were older than me and more experienced.
– Was it your first trip abroad?
– Yes, it was my first trip to another country and I am absolutely thrilled! I would like to thank Institute of Scientific Information on Social Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences and Konrad Adenauer Foundation for the provided opportunity. The participation in this event made me feel that my dreams are coming true. I am going to start working even harder and preparing to enter a foreign university.