SUSU International Students Relax at Olimp

Olimp student sports and recreation camp welcomes guests from abroad. This summer, guests included both Russian and foreign students from SUSU.

International students’ stay at Olimp is slightly different from that of Russian students. This is because it is difficult for international students at times to participate in some of the events, so thanks to the work of the Center for Sociocultural Adaptation of the Institute of Linguistics and International Communication, a special program was developed for them. The daily schedule for international students includes sports, dancing and music master classes, and interactive lessons.

The Head of the Center Dina Valeeva speaks to us about international students’ stay at Olimp.

“Olimp always has an eventful and interesting program, students really like it. During a day, we have a conversation club, sometimes we play board games, or go to the beach. At each event, we try to practice Russian. Students enjoy participating in various contests, for example, in a contest to make the biggest sand castle. International students also really love sport events. At the same time, they are happy to meet with Russian students, and by the end of their session, they know almost everyone staying at the camp.”

International students enjoyed staying at Olimp in 2017, so they were happy to return again.

“This is only the second time that international students have gone to the camp. Last year we had 14 people, and this year – 20, because students really liked it here. Upon returning from the previous session, they asked to be signed up for the next year. By the way, the camp managers really helps us, that is why there is a special nutritional program for international students. This is especially relevant for those who do not eat pork,” says Head of the Center for Sociocultural Adaptation, Dina Valeeva.

South Ural State University students from different countries talk about their impressions from Olimp sports and recreation camp.

“This is my second time coming to Olimp. I really like it here, because I’ve found many friends here. There are interesting events for us each day. We rest a lot here and play various games. They feed us really well here – I love Russian food,” says Gilbert Flores, student from Venezuela.

“This is my first time to come here, and I really like it! We wake up early, go to a warm up, and then to breakfast. Before lunch we have some small games, after which we go to the cafeteria. After lunch, we have a chance to swim or play volleyball. In the evening, after dinner, we also have events and various games. Recently we took the 1st place in futsal at Olimp. I really wanted to stay longer,” says Omar Beijan, student from Iraq.

“I like to meet new people and eat Russian food – it’s tasty. I was here for the first time and I would be happy to return when I have the chance,” says Fidel Benimana, student from Rwanda.

According to staff of the Center for Sociocultural Adaptation, all of the international students really liked their stay this year, so they will absolutely come again next year.

Marina Kovyazina, photos: Oleg Igoshin
You are reporting a typo in the following text:
Simply click the "Send typo report" button to complete the report. You can also include a comment.