Nadia: I think one of the reasons that this scholarship is under the Royal Highness is because the Thai people really admire her. She is an advocate for higher education and has done a lot for its development in Thailand. She is a very aspiring person to look up to, it was an honor to receive such an award from her.

Thomas: I found out about the scholarship from an organization called NSTDA that distributes opportunities for higher education in Thailand. It was listed there as a result of a collaboration between Thailand and Russia during the first Russian-Thai Roundtable, in which they discussed building relationships between Thailand and Russia in developing science and technology.

Paul: I began teaching at my university, and many of my friends and classmates said they enjoyed my teaching. I was inspired to earn a PhD so I could teach at university level. So, I found Her Royal Highness' Princess scholarship on the NSTDA website. I saw that in Skoltech, the campus was also new and magnificent. I watched the official video, and immediately started my application. My main thought was, 'this will be a really great challenge for me', but that didn't stop me from applying.

Paul: I started my studies about industrial logistics, I think it was in high school. I was assessing which field of job would be more fitting for me and which experience I could apply even working abroad. I think with industrial stuff, we can adapt everywhere, so that's why I chose industrial logistics. When I started bachelor's studies, they taught me a lot about the logic, about how to work with people and coordinate with other companies. Also, about how to manage the time schedules, to manage people and resources. I think it's very logical and still love it.

Nadia: What got me interested in materials is that everything in the world is made from a certain material, you know? If we know the properties of materials, we can create new ones. There is so much room for research and applications in this field.

Thomas: Okay, before my bachelor's degree, I was kind of like typical Asian student. I like math. So, I studied pure mathematics, but I realized it was too theoretical for me. And I wanted to apply it to the real world. So, I decided to study an applied or a data science to use my mathematics to apply to a newer, more innovative school.

The Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Skoltech Scholarship is a prestigious award given annually to three students from Thailand to study for a Master of Science degree in the areas of Data Science, Materials Science and Energy Systems at Skoltech, in Moscow. Committees of prominent scientists from Thailand and Russia conduct a competitive and rigorous selection of applications. Finalists are invited for an audience with H.R.H. Princess Sirindhorn who makes the final decision as to the three scholarship winners.

Paul: It was very challenging at first, especially because I don't speak Russian. When someone talked to me on the street, I said "Ya ne govoryu po-russki", which means "I don't speak Russian". But then they replied, "But you just said something in Russian!". That was awkward. Now I feel much more comfortable getting around the city. And, of course, at Skoltech everyone speaks English, so my studies are not affected.

I made friends during my first semester in Innovation Workshop. We were literally forced to work together, but you know, going through something challenging as a group really brings people together. I am glad I had that opportunity, I met amazing people, Russian and international.

Thomas: I really like the metro, because it's very convenient. We can go almost everywhere in Moscow and it only takes 30-40 minutes. I also like all the culture and literature, it's completely different from that of Thailand. Oh, and ice skating!

Before I came here, I was not the person that came to people first, definitely an introvert. But here, I needed to be more open because it's very good to have friends in a new country. Especially if you're in the same courses, because sometimes we really need to discuss our course materials and assignments. Skoltech and its curriculum really made me think outside of the box and get outside of my comfort zone. I love it.

Nadia: I love the food… During Christmas, we went back to Thailand and I brought some Russian snacks for my friends try it. It was so different to them! And I like the air here, especially near Skoltech. I think when you leave the city you can breathe better.

Paul: I suggest focusing on academic knowledge. International students must be very active here. I don't want to put too much stress on them, so they should just enjoy studying. Because if you enjoy studying, it will be easier to adapt and learn the materials. But you certainly have to be earnest. For me, if I don't understand something during a class, I always come to the professor and talk about them directly and honestly. That's a good thing to do, because no one will run after you, you are an adult and responsible for your own education.

Nadia: I always say, work hard, play hard. Don't be afraid of asking for help and inviting people to share experiences with you, go to places and events. There is so much to do in Moscow, you will definitely have an entire bucket list of places to visit and activities to attend.

Thomas: I'll add about culture. I think many international students may have heard stereotypes of Russian people, but I never encountered that. People here are very nice, much nicer than I expected. It's been a great pleasure to meet them, they are very welcoming. Enjoy it and be welcoming in return. Make your experience abroad count.