‘Everyone Here Is Eager to Connect and Collaborate’

Syed Zeeshan Raza Zaidi

Photo courtesy of Syed Zeeshan Raza Zaidi

Syed Zeeshan Raza Zaidi is a 23-year-old international student from Karachi, Pakistan. He is currently a first-year master’s student in Cognitive Neuroscience at HSE University in Moscow seeking to explore the complexities of human behaviour and cognition from a multidisciplinary perspective. Syed spoke to the HSE News Service about why HSE is the best place to realise his potential, what makes Moscow and Karachi so similar, and why he misses home-cooked food most of all.

— How did you end up at HSE University in Moscow?

— I have always been deeply inspired by the literature of Fyodor Dostoevsky. His thought-provoking philosophy and profound insights into human nature captivated me throughout my teenage years, inspiring me to explore Russian society and its intellectual traditions. Additionally, as a psychologist, I was also drawn to Russia’s rich history in psychology, being the birthplace of pioneers like Pavlov and Sechenov. Their groundbreaking contributions to psychology motivated me to pursue my graduate studies in a country with such a rich scientific and cultural heritage.

In 2022, I was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship to attend the XIII International Russian Higher Education Conference (RHEC) at HSE University-Moscow. There, I experienced the vibrant academic environment, the university’s strong emphasis on innovation, and its commitment to supporting students in achieving their full potential. What stood out to me most was HSE’s dedication to fostering student well-being and its encouragement of both academic and personal growth. This cemented my decision to pursue my master’s degree at HSE.

— What was the admission process like?

— Since I applied through the Open Doors Scholarship, I didn’t have the opportunity to communicate directly with any HSE representatives before enrolment. However, the scholarship application process itself was straightforward and seamless from start to finish. All the necessary information was available on the scholarship website, and the instructions were clear.

The entrance exam was quite challenging. The questions pushed me to think critically and required a deep understanding of the subject matter. I really enjoyed it

It tested my intellectual abilities in ways I hadn’t experienced during my undergraduate studies. It was completely different from what I was used to, which made it an exciting and rewarding challenge.

— Tell us a about your studies at the university.

— The academic environment at HSE is dynamic and highly supportive, offering a great balance between theoretical knowledge and practical application. The courses I’ve taken in my Cognitive Neuroscience programme have covered a broad range of topics, including brain anatomy, cognitive processes, neuroimaging techniques, and research methods. What I appreciate most about the curriculum is its interdisciplinary approach, combining elements of neuroscience, psychology, and computational modelling. This has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the human brain while also exploring its impact on behaviour, emotions, and learning.

The courses in ‘Theory and Methodology of Modern Psychology’ and ‘Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Psychology’ have significantly enhanced my research skills and opened up new possibilities for exploring the complexities of human cognition and behaviour. The hands-on experience with tools like PsychoPy has been particularly valuable, as it has allowed me to design and run my own experiments, which will play a key role in my future research. I also gained a deeper appreciation for both qualitative and quantitative methods, which has expanded my research toolkit.

The professors at HSE are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their fields. They encourage discussions and critical thinking and are always open to questions

The workload can be intense, especially when juggling multiple courses, research projects, and exams. However, the challenge is motivating, and the university provides plenty of support through academic counselling and peer collaboration. My experience at HSE has been both rewarding and intellectually fulfilling, and I feel well-equipped for the next steps in my academic and professional journey.

— How is life in Moscow? Do you feel part of a student community?

— It’s often said that Karachi never sleeps, and I find Moscow to be quite similar. Moscow has an irresistible energy that makes the city come alive after dark. This shared vibrancy has made me feel at home here. Of the places I’ve visited so far, Red Square stands out. My mentor, Sir Musa Sadr, visited it in the early 1970s, and walking on the same cobblestones felt like connecting not just to Russian history, but to a personal one.

I’ve made a conscious effort to interact with both international and Russian students outside of class, and despite the language barrier, I’ve found that the student community here is very inclusive. This has helped me develop a sense of belonging. Everyone, regardless of their background, is eager to connect and collaborate.

Photo courtesy of Syed Zeeshan Raza Zaidi

Since I’m on a scholarship, HSE has provided me with a dormitory equipped with all the essential amenities. I can honestly say that it feels like a home away from home. The environment is ideal for both relaxation and studying. I often play table tennis in the dorm when I have some free time—it’s a great way to take a break from studies and stay active.

On Friday nights, I join my dorm mates for futsal games. It’s not just about playing; it’s also about spending quality time with friends and sharing a few laughs after a busy week

— What do you miss most about your home country?

— The one thing I miss the most about my home country is the food! I’ve tried to make biryani several times using Russian spices, but it just doesn’t taste the same. The biryani my mother used to cook holds a special place in my heart, and no recipe can quite match it. It’s not just the taste—it’s the warmth and love that came with it that I miss the most.

— What are your professional plans?

— My goal is to become a researcher and practitioner focused on developing innovative approaches to understanding human cognition and behaviour. I see myself working in an academic or research institution, perhaps leading projects that explore the applications of cognitive neuroscience in improving education systems or mental health interventions.

I also aspire to bridge the gap between Pakistan and the international academic community by bringing back advanced research methodologies and fostering collaborations

I would love to contribute to public health initiatives, focusing on psychological well-being and neuroeducation, which are often underdeveloped in many regions. 

My dream is to create a positive impact on society by combining my academic expertise with a commitment to practical solutions, whether through teaching, research, or public service. Moscow and HSE have provided me with a strong foundation to pursue these goals, and I look forward to building on this experience in the years to come.

— What else would you like to share about your experience at HSE?

To future students, I’d say that studying at HSE is more than just an academic experience—it’s a chance to explore new perspectives, engage with brilliant minds from around the world, and challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. It is an ideal place for anyone eager to push boundaries and discover their true potential.

To my fellow students and teachers, I’d like to express my gratitude for their openness and collaboration. You’ve not only made my time here meaningful but also shown me the value of diverse perspectives and the importance of fostering a global academic community.

HSE has become a second home for me, and I look forward to contributing to its vibrant culture in any way I can

My advice to everyone: embrace every moment here, because it’s an experience that will shape your future in ways you can’t yet imagine.