News and events

International students of the Faculty of Philology at Amur State University had a unique opportunity to experience the festive atmosphere of Russia's New Year celebration. The event featured an engaging quiz where participants pieced together puzzles with holiday-themed images, drew the traditional Russian character Snegurochka blindfolded, played charades to enhance nonverbal communication skills, and tested their aim by throwing paper snowballs at targets.

In keeping with Russian tradition, students from China decorated Christmas trees and danced in circles during carol-singing rituals. They then recited poems for Ded Moroz (Father Frost) in Russian, receiving sweet treats as rewards for each performance.

Many international students will spend their winter break back home in China, but some have chosen to celebrate in Blagoveshchensk.

"In China, we gather around one table with family, eat dumplings, and chat a lot," shared student Gao Minghao. He added that he has already celebrated New Year’s Eve in Russia, noting how Russians set up lavish tables too, though they prefer salads over dumplings. This year, foreign students are also decorating dormitories in anticipation of the festivities.

Another vibrant festival that international students at Amur State University learn about is Maslenitsa—a week-long carnival marked by pancake-making contests and creating lucky amulets.