On July 15, a graduation ceremony was held at the VSU Institute of International Education. 283 international graduates from 39 countries completed their studies at the university.
On July 15, a graduation ceremony was held at the VSU Institute of International Education. A total of 283 international graduates from 39 countries completed their university journey. Behind these bare figures lie hundreds of stories of personal growth, friendship, and discovery. The ceremony opened with a welcoming address by Alla Akulshina, Director of the Institute of International Education. The singing of the student anthem "Gaudeamus" provided a musical backdrop to a symbolic moment: two groups of graduates carried the banners of VSU and the Institute of International Education, embodying the bond between generations and the unity of the university community.
The formal proceedings were interspersed with musical interludes featuring performances by the graduates themselves and their compatriots, adding a touch of their native cultures to the program. A slideshow created a special atmosphere, displaying photos of the graduates in various parts of Russia, in university classrooms, and among friends. Yet, the most heartwarming moment was a video message from parents who could not attend the celebration in person. They spoke in their native language — with their daughter providing subtitles — and concluded by offering their congratulations in Russian together; their delivery may not have been perfect, but it was truly heartfelt.
Some graduates even took the stage accompanied by their children — a sight that spoke volumes, far better than any formal report: their years at VSU had been a time not only of academic study but also of finding true love.
One of the event's final highlights was a parting message from Sergey Vladimirovich Fedotov, Head of Department at the Faculty of Geography, Geoecology, and Tourism — a faculty traditionally known for having the largest number of international students. The graduates then responded with speeches of their own, sincerely thanking their professors, classmates, VSU, and Russia for the years spent growing up and coming of age.