Double Degree – Double the Opportunities: The Experience of Kirill Tsarev, a Student of the ‘E-Business and Digital Innovation’ Programme at HSE GSB in Passau, Germany
Kirill Tsarev, a second-year student of the “E-Business and Digital Innovation” programme at HSE Graduate School of Business, shares his experience studying in the double degree programme with the University of Passau, Germany.
I am now in my sixth month of studying in the double degree programme at the University of Passau, Germany. The first semester—and, more importantly, the exam session—is behind me. I’ve had enough time to settle in, and now I can finally share my impressions of both the learning process and student life beyond the classroom.
The first thing I want to talk about is how studies are organized here. There are no rigidly structured programmes like we are used to. You choose your own courses from a general pool based on your interests. This way, you spend your time and effort only on what truly interests you.
The study process itself is quite standard—lectures, seminars, homework assignments, and final exams. Unfortunately, there are no automatic pass grades here, and the exams themselves are quite challenging, but passing them is definitely possible.
What is even more interesting, and probably more important when going abroad for a long-term programme, is social adaptation—a different country, culture, language, and people. The AEGEE Passau student organization does an excellent job helping with this. During the first two weeks after arriving at the university, students take part in "Orientation Weeks," which include both practical support (help with registration, introduction to the university’s digital systems, etc.) and fun activities (quizzes, speed-friending events, excursions). These social events help international students settle in, make new friends, and connect with people from all over the world.
Throughout the semester, a huge number of different events are organized by students and various student organizations: fairs, parties, and movie screenings in lecture halls. AEGEE also regularly arranges group trips to neighboring cities and countries: Munich, Regensburg, Budapest. In general, the balance between studying and leisure at the University of Passau is well maintained.
Another highlight is the excellent work of the university’s International Office. The staff is always happy to help students with any issues they may have. So, don’t worry—you won’t be left to handle problems on your own!
All in all, I am incredibly happy that I joined the double degree programme as a student of HSE Graduate School of Business!
