Annual workshop ‘Getting the Most Out of Living and Working in Russia’

On October 23, 2024, HSE University welcomed its newest international hires with a workshop titled ‘Getting the Most Out of Living and Working in Russia’.

The workshop brought together not only new international faculty members who have just recently arrived in Russia but also some who have been in Russia for a few years already. The new faculty members had the opportunity to share their personal experiences of living and working in a new cultural environment with their colleagues.

During the workshop, faculty members received a number of practical tips to help them better understand Russian social etiquette, as well as tips for dealing with everyday issues, such as choosing proper winter clothing, buying food and shopping online. The workshop also addressed general questions concerning the phenomenon of cultural differences, with a focus on how to navigate them effectively. Specifically, the international faculty members learned about the Cultural Dimensions Theory of Dutch social psychologist Geert Hofstede and how it can be applied to various cultures. A key takeaway for attendees was the insight that, although they may differ in specific dimensions, diverse cultures all have certain things in common that unite people worldwide, including such universal human values as kindness and empathy, and a willingness to listen to others and help them.

Finally, Sergei Ishanov, Leading Psychologist at the HSE University Centre for Psychological Counselling, spoke about various methods for dealing with culture shock. He engaged the participants by encouraging them to present their own ideas on culture shock and first-hand tips for overcoming it.

Right after the workshop, Dr. Tingting Liu, Research Fellow in the International Laboratory on World Order Studies and the New Regionalism at the HSE University Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs, shared her impressions from the seminar:

Just like other events organised by the International Faculty Support Centre, this workshop offered a good opportunity for people from different countries to build a better understanding of Russia and Russian society. It was very informative in the sense that it covered all the necessary and useful information for foreigners to adapt themselves to life and work in Russia. Meanwhile, it provided a platform for people to learn about each other.
Therefore, I would say this workshop is quite helpful and enjoyable, and, of course, successful. For most people, relocating to a new country has always been challenging in many aspects. But, thanks to this workshop organised by the Centre, life in Russia seems less difficult now. I wish everyone a great time in Russia. Just enjoy it!

Tingting Liu 

International Laboratory on World Order Studies and the New Regionalism: 
Research Fellow