Ekaterina Rozhdestvenskaia

My name is Ekaterina Rozhdestvenskaia, and I am an international student from Russia, currently studying at the University of Leeds. I finished my high school education in Russia, in my hometown St Petersburg, at a private school called “Vzmakh”. There I passed my final state exams and achieved excellent grades, with which I received offers from the best universities of the United Kingdom

I have heard a lot about the University of Leeds, as it is widely known for its iconic alumni, such as cultural figures like the actress Emma Mackey, members of one of my favourite musical groups, alt-J, and political leaders like Keir Starmer, the current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and, for example, a former President of Mongolia. I chose Leeds for its globally respected education and the unique educational, social, and cultural experiences it offers. The utmost reputation the University of Leeds is famous for was a key factor in my decision-making. In addition, it was a priority for me to study and live right on the campus, a huge student town. I will be genuine and add that the bunnies spread throughout the entire campus played a very important role as well!

After completing my Foundation Year in Business, I successfully transitioned into the Bachelor’s programme in Economics and Politics at the University of Leeds. I am deeply passionate about politics, economics, and creative, truthful, and unbiased writing, which are the primary reasons I chose to study abroad and expand my horizons. After two years here, I can confidently say that my adaptation period is over. I no longer feel like an outsider and interact with my surroundings effortlessly, although my initial year was quite challenging. Psychologically, actions that are straightforward for home students can be significantly more difficult for people who are not acquainted with the environment. Now, having navigated such challenges as bureaucracy and cultural assimilation myself, I am well prepared to guide other international students through similar experiences.

The position of Link to Leeds Ambassador allows me to act as a mediator between international students with unique backgrounds and challenges and the University, which offers a dynamic and enriching student life. I am thrilled to facilitate this experience, helping new overseas students navigate and simplify the challenges that may be encountered. Moreover, I specifically chose our University because of the high range of self-improvement options available to students here.

I currently reside in White Rose View student accommodation, where I have formed close friendships with many wonderful people. Outside my studies, I pursue hobbies that support both my physical and mental well-being: working out, Pilates, history, and psychology. I regularly attend sports classes at The Edge, the on-campus sports club, and I enjoy reading literature and listening to podcasts on human cognition, behaviour, geopolitics, and diverse historical insights.

I am also actively involved in a variety of student societies including Maths, Politics, Philosophy and Economics, and Surfing, which enrich my student life immensely and offer a broad life experience I truly value and am grateful to the University for.

Highly empathetic and communicative, I stay constantly curious about the world around me. Ambitious and driven, I strive to achieve my goals and aim for the best outcomes. As for the city, I like that, even though everything in Leeds is within walking distance, the place is very diverse, and now in my third year I am still discovering new places. My favourite is Belgrave, a Berlin-style bar with lots of graffiti, house music, and a lovely terrace. I enjoy its fresh, stylish atmosphere, where I feel part of Leeds’ diverse and dynamic community.

If you have any questions, or just want to have a chat to find out more about the university or Leeds, feel free to message me on Unibuddy or by email at [email protected].