Yuliana Gasipuk: being a medical volunteer and discovering Russia
Tne next guest of our Second Home project is Yuliana Gasipuk, a Belarusian national studying at the Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology.
Shared cultural space
Many students from the nations of the former Soviet Union choose Russia because of its multicultural atmosphere.
“My journey began with an educational program for applicants from Rossotrudnichestvo. At the time of my admission, Belarus hadn’t yet offered a medical biochemistry program with the deep and interdisciplinary focus that KFU offers,” the young woman informed.
The multifaceted Kazan
Yuliana noted that the capital of Tatarstan gently immerses you in its energetic, yet relaxed, way of life. “It was my first time traveling so far from home. The city’s architecture immediately impressed me. On one side, there are classic historical buildings, on the other, new neighborhoods. On Bauman Street, we hear people speaking different languages. Tatar and Russian cuisines harmoniously blend and intertwine in the cafe menus. And the calendars mention various religious holidays,” she shared.
Extracurricular life
“I work with the Tatarstan Medical Volunteers organization, providing medical support for cultural and sporting events. Together with the student education center, Formula of Health, I give lectures aimed at preventing addictive behavior among young people. I also participate in campaigns organized by the AIDS Center in Kazan, conducting rapid HIV testing,” said Gasipuk.
Discovering Russia
Traveling around the country helped the young woman better understand the country’s culture. “Thanks to my studies, I was able to travel to Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Makhachkala. In the capital, I was struck by the scale and rhythm: the underground metro palaces, where each station is a museum, and yet the quiet alleys of Patriarch’s Ponds. St. Petersburg impressed me with its austere, almost theatrical beauty: drawbridges, white nights, and the special light from the embankments. Makhachkala was the most powerful culture shock. It’s a completely different Russia: mountains, an oriental bazaar, and incredible hospitality,” recalled Yuliana.
According to the student, Kazan deserves special attention. “I was able to volunteer at Sabantuy as part of the BRICS Games. This holiday shows that traditions are part of national life,” she said.
Tatar delicacies, a pleasant surprise
“I was interested in trying ochpochmak,* gubadiya,*** and qazylyq,***” she noted. “But chak-chak**** is my favorite. I now always bring it home to the family, it’s a sort of a tradition at this point.”
Plans for the future
“I want to stay to stay in Russia after graduation and enroll in medical residency in clinical genetics. Russian healthcare is keen on developing personalized medicine, and I see the space for my ambition and goals here,” concluded the student.
*Triangle-shaped pastry with diced potato, beef, and onions
**Layered pie with rice, raisins, egg yolk, and fried cottage cheese
***Smoked, dried or boiled horse meat kielbasa
****Caramelized sweet made of dough balls, honey, and sugar