Kirill Safin

What experiences make you a great ambassador?

During my three years studying at Masaryk University, I've gained a ton of valuable experience. This includes learning how to effectively communicate with everyone, from professors to students, and figuring out how to truly live in a new place, not just survive, as a foreigner navigating a completely different culture (food, traditions). I’ve also mastered the skill of successfully balancing my academic commitments, regular sports activities, and finding time for my hobbies (I really like to learn other languages). I'm eager to use all this knowledge to help prospective or current students.

Feel free to ask me anything via e-mail about the practical and personal challenges of your student life at MU!

What advice would you give to new students?

First and foremost, believe in yourself, then study and stay consistent. It may sound cliché, you’ve probably heard “believe in yourself and you can achieve anything” countless times but this is my perspective based on experience:

At the beginning, it can feel overwhelming: anatomy, biophysics, public health, biology… you’re unfamiliar with how the university system works, unsure whether it will get harder or easier, and you’re just trying to navigate with what you have. In these moments, it’s important to maintain peace of mind and know that you can do it (here the belief comes). Don’t compare yourself to others (it’s very important). Everyone comes with their own background and experiences. Move at your own pace and trust the process. As long as you keep studying, everything will fall into place.

At the same time, don’t forget to make friends. It is one of the key factors to succeeding at MU. Start conversations with new people and get to know each other. There is no better feeling than getting to know someone who can be your future best friend in a new country!

If you encounter difficulties with any subject, consider booking a consultation with a teacher, meeting with a senior student, or watching videos from reliable YouTube channels trusted by doctors and medical students. Additionally, MIMSA has an educational team ready to help you tackle any issues related to the study process. Or ask me, I’m always there for you :)

What do you love most about Brno?

Vibrancy. The city is full of energy, people, and events. There are countless options for having a great time, whether you’re alone or with friends. You’ll meet people of many different nationalities, giving you the chance to learn new things - whether it’s cooking Italian dishes, you have never cooked before, with Italians or exploring Czech culture by visiting various museums with your French friend.

Brno is also home to many historical sites that are absolutely worth seeing. Did you know that Vegetable Market (Zelný trh) has underground storage of food products?

You can always ask me any suggestions where to go in Brno, just hit me up with an e-mail or message!

Together, let’s make this university chapter both amazing and unforgettable!