The traditional “Freshmen Walk” took place at NSU through Akademgorodok

On August 31, the annual event took place at Novosibirsk State University “Freshmen Walk” — a traditional event that has been organized for 14 consecutive years by NSU Radio “Cactus”. More than 130 freshmen went along the unique route of Akademgorodok, met students from various institutes and faculties, learned about the most important places for a student’s life.

The walk started from the letter N* of the administrative building of NSU (1 Pirogova St.). Groups departed on schedule at 16:00, 17:00, and 18:00. The classic route included stops on Illich Street, at the Shopping Center, the Palace of Culture “Akademiya”, the House of Scientists of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Novosibirsk, Morskoy Prospekt, at the “Gorodok” and “Yarche” stores, the Presidium of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, as well as at the laboratory building of NSU, the Specialized Educational and Scientific Center of NSU, the Sports Complex, and the Educational and Scientific Center of NSU.

The tour guides — senior students — told the newcomers not only about landmark locations, but also about everyday details of student life: where to get a sick leave certificate, which stores are closer and more accessible, how not to get lost in Akademgorodok in the first days.

For each participant in the walk, the Radio team prepared a pleasant surprise—a tasty snack from the cafe-bar Co.mein and the coffee shop Baker street. Every first-year student was given a sandwich and lemonade.

— I absolutely loved giving tours of Akademgorodok to freshmen, getting to know new people. I was energized and uplifted by the students — they are all so different, each with their own life plans and unique stories. Sharing my experience and impressions with them is very valuable. I fully realize that upperclassmen should be a support for freshmen, as just a couple of years ago we were in their place. It’s really great that the tradition of the walk continues. And you know, I think I showed them not just locations but helped them immerse themselves in student life by sharing my favorite spots in Akademgorodok, – shared his impressions Yaroslav Boyinsky, a 4th-year student of the Economics Faculty (EF) at NSU, acted as the tour guide.

The walking route was officially approved by the Soviet District police. As the organizers noted, if the children wish to extend the route to the Technopark, the Botanical Garden, or the pond with the ducks, the guides are always ready to support this — last year such requests happened more than once.

This year, the walk took place in one day, but the organizers assured that if there are many interested, they are ready to hold tours every evening during the first week of September.

First impressions of freshmen:

— I liked everything very much. Interesting stories from the tour guides, good people among the participants, and a pleasant atmosphere, — noted Alena Palchunova, a first-year student of the Faculty of Information Technology (FIT) at NSU.

— The walk was enjoyable, despite the fact that I have lived in Akadem for my entire life. I met new people and learned something new for myself on a familiar route. It was especially delightful that at the end of the event we were treated to a small snack, — said Ivan Churkin, a first-year student at NSU FIT.

And last year’s participants:

— I am glad that there is such a cool event! It is useful in every aspect, from orienting yourself in Akademgorodok during the first days of study to meeting your first friends in a new place. I am from Sochi myself and received my first education there. Last year, after I went through the route only once and talked to experienced student guides, everything became clear to me immediately regarding the basics. I definitely recommend it to all freshmen! — shared Mikhail Savin, a second-year master’s student at the Faculty of Economics, NSU,

As noted by the chief editor of the radio station and a master’s student in “Journalism” Tatyana Ershova, there is nothing supernatural in the “Walk.” It was created to provide support for freshmen, especially non-local students who are in Akademgorodok for the first time.

— Sometimes it is very difficult for recent high school graduates to adapt to student life, I have been through it myself. Parents settle you into the dormitory, and then you are left to your own devices. Of course, there are advantages to this growing up, but when you face the first difficulties and have not yet made friends or acquaintances to ask for help, our event is very helpful. Finding out necessary places, asking for advice, or just chatting about life — sometimes this is the most important thing for a smooth start. That is why every year I say that if freshmen still have questions or difficulties after the walk, I am personally ready to help. — Tatiana shares.

The organizers thank all participants and remind that the Radio NSU team “Cactus” is always open to new members. The event was held with the support of the NSU Youth Policy Department and the university administration.