From Moscow to Hong Kong, Pursuing Psychology and Compassion

Aglaia’s journey is truly one of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth and caring for others. Born in Moscow, she grew up in a family where high expectations and competition were the norm with her parents and siblings pushing her to her limits. She recounts her early struggles with math but also how that adversity turned into motivation: “I’d say having an older brother made me a relatively competitive person. and taught me how to strive for my best.”

Aglaia’s path took an unexpected turn when she moved to the UK for high school. She arrived with great anticipation, believing she would find the idyllic UK she had envisioned. However, after spending 3 years there, she says, “I realised that I was getting used to the place and was no longer exploring or getting anything new from it.” This realisation became the catalyst for her willingness to step out of her comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.

Her decision to study in Hong Kong would bring an entirely new experience. Aglaia’s transition to life at HKU marks a significant chapter in her journey. In Hong Kong, she faced a different culture, made new friends, and expanded her horizons. Despite initial hesitations, she found a welcoming community that defied her expectations. In her own words, “People here have been very hospitable. They would always include me in conversations and make me feel welcomed. I don’t feel out of place here.”

Reflecting on her experiences at HKU, Aglaia shares, “I’m really happy that I had the chance to explore.” This sentiment encapsulates her proactive approach to university life, emphasising exploration and a genuine curiosity for the diverse experiences HKU offers – an outlook that reflects not only her interest in academic pursuits, but also her commitment to personal growth and openness to new experiences.

Aglaia’s most challenging moment was directly related to the war. When international flights from Russia started getting cancelled, she had to make a critical decision: stay safe at home or continue her education abroad, despite the challenges she might face. She describes this as a tipping point in her life: “It was a really tough choice to make. I feel like before that moment, I was always in my comfort zone.” She chose a challenge, and left to face the unknown.

The pandemic ignited her passion for psychology, when she took an online course on the subject. Aglaia explains, “I found it fascinating how  theories about the way we process information can predict our behavior.” Her interest led her to explore various career paths in psychology, including human resources and counselling. She gained practical experience in HR, where she realised that the psychological theories she learned could be practically applied to improve workplace dynamics and communication.

Looking forward, Aglaia aims to find for herself a fulfilling role in a welcoming and positive environment. She emphasises that her definition of success goes beyond material gains, focussing on continuous growth and contributing to the world. She aims to balance her work and personal life, foster personal bonds, and encourage a more compassionate society, adding: “Leaving Russia for education was tough, not knowing when I’d see my family again. However, being here now, I know it was the right choice.”

As Aglaia navigates her psychology studies at HKU, she is interested in more than just academic achievements. She expresses a desire for a holistic university experience, emphasising personal connections and a vibrant social life. In her own words, “I hope that in the next few years I’m still surrounded by the people I’m surrounded right now, and I am looking forward to trying out new things and making even more friends.” Her aspiration underscores her commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and highlights the importance she places on the people she encounters during her time at HKU.

As for her future in Hong Kong, Aglaia envisions contributing positively to the community and leaving a lasting impact. She states, “I am still hesitant to whether I would like to pursue acareer in counselling or human resources. However, regardless of what I choose, I hope I’ll be able to grow, to help people around me, and to create a better work environment.” Aglaia demonstrates the true essence of HKU education with her long-term commitment to using her education and experiences to influence positive change, both within the University and the broader Hong Kong community.