#Formula for Success. “People Are at the Heart of What Makes a University Valuable”

“I’d like to help other students discover the same opportunities that helped me,” says Begimai Dzhunusbaeva, featured in our Formula for Success series. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics at Moscow Polytech and went on to pursue a master’s degree in a field focused on digital transformation management and business systems. She will continue her studies at the university as a doctoral student.

— Why did you choose this field and Moscow Polytech?

— Choosing what to study wasn’t straightforward for me. I was preparing to apply to medical school, but at some point I realized I wasn’t ready to devote the amount of time and energy that medicine demands. I decided to follow in my father’s footsteps. He trained in finance, so I chose economics. It turned out to be the right decision for me. As my studies progressed, I became genuinely interested in how financial and economic processes work, how companies operate, and how the numbers inform real management decisions.

I was drawn to Moscow Polytech by its practical approach and the opportunities it offers beyond the core curriculum. I particularly valued the chance to do research and work on projects. Both experiences helped shape the path I took.

— You were named the university’s top student for your academic achievements. What else did you do at university? Is there an achievement you’re particularly proud of?

— Research was a big part of my university life. I took part in conferences, prepared papers for publication and worked on research projects. Over time, I developed a serious interest in research that I want to pursue further during my doctoral studies.

I was particularly impressed by Moscow Polytech’s project-based learning. I liked the idea that students could tackle real challenges facing organizations and that companies could get a fresh perspective on how they operate.

Later, I decided to initiate a partnership myself and submitted an application for the organization I work for to take part in Moscow Polytech’s student projects. The application was approved, and I’m looking forward to working with our students as a company representative, sharing my practical experience and tackling real business challenges together.

That’s probably what I’m most proud of.

— What knowledge and skills are you grateful to the university for?

— Above all, I’m grateful that I learned to think systematically, analyze information, work with large volumes of data and apply what I learned in practice.

The university taught me to find solutions independently, speak in front of an audience, make a case for my views and take initiative with confidence.

I’d also like to thank the people who supported me throughout my studies.

I’m especially grateful to Valeria Semenova for the role she played in my development as a researcher. Without her support, I might never have heard about many of the conferences, events and research opportunities I had access to. It makes a real difference to have a lecturer who sees your potential and helps you figure out where and how to put it to use.

I’d also like to thank Alexander Tenishchev, Head of the Department of Economics, and Marina Krekova, Head of the Department of Human Resource Management, for what they taught me and for the opportunities they gave me to grow.

For me, much of what makes a university valuable comes fr om the people who teach you and help you find your own direction and take the next step.

— What is your most memorable experience as a student?

— It’s hard to single out one event. What stands out is the moment I began to feel part of a professional and academic community. Going to class had grown into something that meant a great deal to me. It feels especially meaningful to return to project work at Moscow Polytech, this time as a representative of an organization. I think that shows just how much the university environment can shape the path you take.

— How would you describe Moscow Polytech in three words?

— Opportunities. Growth. People.

Opportunities, because you can try your hand at all kinds of things here and often discover an interest you never expected to pursue.

Growth, because over the course of your studies, you gain professional knowledge, learn to think differently, broaden your horizons and get a clearer sense of wh ere you want to go.

People, because what you remember most about university is the people you meet along the way, from lecturers and mentors to classmates.

— What would you wish for first-year students and for yourself?

— I’d encourage first-year students to make the most of university life while earning their degree. Get involved in projects, take part in conferences and competitions, talk to your lecturers, ask questions, share your own ideas and be willing to try something new.

I’ve learned from experience that a single event, project or person can change the direction you take. Sometimes you have to take the next step yourself, before anyone suggests it.

As for myself, I hope to build on what I’ve achieved, stay curious and keep growing. I’m looking forward to doctoral studies, continuing my research and working with Moscow Polytech in a new capacity through joint projects.