Last Friday, the best foreign graduates were awarded at the Kazan University History Museum. 49 students from far and near abroad were awarded with letters of thanks and memorable gifts. Hossam Eid, an ITIS graduate from Egypt, was among them. He is completing his bachelor's degree this year and already has far-reaching academic and career plans.

We recorded a long interview with him in which he talked about studying at ITIS, mentoring, participating in the Open Doors Olympiad, plans for the next five years, as well as why he is interested in the topic of artificial intelligence and how he managed to interest the Rosatom State Corporation with his graduation project. At the end, there are wishes for all foreign applicants. Be sure to read to the end.  

Why did you choose ITIS for admission?

- I entered ITIS in September 2021. I chose Kazan Federal University because it is one of the leading universities in Russia with an excellent reputation in many fields. KFU provides unique opportunities for development, combining theory with practical experience, and ITIS is an excellent base for studying information technology and mathematics.

Where are you from and how did your parents evaluate your choice of university and move to Russia?

- I am originally from Egypt, my parents now live there, and my brothers and sisters are based in the UAE. My family supported my decision, although they were a little worried. They understand that this is a chance for my development and success in the future.

How did you study at school? Have you always been interested in mathematics and computer science?

- At school, I was always very purposeful and tried to use every opportunity to gain knowledge, and mathematics and computer science have interested me since childhood.

How were your early years in Russia?

- The first years were difficult because of the language barrier. I decided to learn Russian and adapt to a new culture, which helped me get used to it faster.

How did you learn Russian so well?

- Before entering KFU, I took a preparatory course at the Kazan State Academy of Veterinary Medicine named after N.E. Bauman (KAVM), where I got a good language base. Later, at the university, I began to actively communicate with Russian students at ITIS. This constant practice with native speakers has greatly helped me to learn Russian faster and feel confident in communication.

What grades did you study for at ITIS? Was it easy for you to pass the sessions?

- I studied with excellent grades, getting 100 points in most subjects. The exams weren't easy, but I always prepared carefully.

Which subject did you find the most difficult?

- The most difficult subject was "Computing systems, networks and telecommunications". This is the only subject where I got "good", otherwise all subjects are "excellent".

What else did you do besides study?

- In addition to studying, I am actively developing in my professional field and work online both in Egypt and in the UAE. My life mainly consists of studying and working. I am a person who always strives for development and improvement.

Did you manage to make friends during your studies?

- Yes, I managed to make many friends and comrades during my studies, not only among ITIS students, but also among graduates of previous years. I always stay in touch with them and help students from different courses. I also create educational content in various subjects and share it with other students to help them improve their academic results. My goal is to support students and help them achieve academic success.

You have already defended your diploma and defended it with a "5"! What was your theme?
- My topic was: The development of a web service for predicting the remaining resource and assessing the condition of transformers using machine learning methods. It was an interesting and important project in which I used modern methods of data analysis and machine learning to create an effective solution.

You have already mentioned that the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom has become interested in your topic. What is the current stage of cooperation?

- Yes, the materials were sent to Rosenergoatom Concern JSC, which is part of the Rosatom State Corporation, and they expressed interest. Yes, this is not a guarantee of implementation, but the very fact of interest and the beginning of a dialogue with such a large customer is already an important step forward. Especially in the context of the policy of import substitution and the development of domestic solutions in Russia. There are no specific agreements yet. I understand that the process is lengthy. At the moment, I am awaiting further news from the company and, of course, I will not discuss this until specific information becomes available. I hope the project will find its embodiment and become a contribution to the development of intelligent technologies in Russia.

Do you plan to continue your studies at ITIS?

- Yes, I plan to continue my studies at the ITIS Graduate School, and then I plan to enroll in graduate school in order to deepen my knowledge and contribute to science. Also, at the moment, I create content for all students through channels and groups, help them with academic issues, and always try to stay in touch to provide support and assistance to everyone. Having enrolled in the master's program, I'm going to continue this activity.

Tell us about participating in the Open Doors Olympiad.

- In 2024, I took part in the Open Doors Olympiad, choosing the profile "Computer Science and Data Science" and "Applied Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence". I successfully passed the first stage and was admitted to the second. In addition, I participated in the Rossotrudnichestvo program through the Russian House in Cairo, where I interviewed teachers and experts from various universities. This gave me the opportunity to get excellent results and enroll in Kazan Federal University for a degree in Software Engineering at ITIS.

Congratulations, it's a lot of work and a lot of luck. Tell me, why are you interested in the topic of artificial intelligence?

- I am interested in the topic of artificial intelligence, because I have been working in this field for 6 years, and I see how technology is developing rapidly. Artificial intelligence opens up huge opportunities for solving a wide variety of tasks, from automating processes to creating innovative solutions in medicine, education and other fields. I am deeply passionate about this field because it is constantly evolving and requires new ideas and approaches. I love being a part of this progress and constantly learning to use AI to solve real-world problems.

Are information technologies changing people's lives for the better?

- Information technology is definitely changing lives for the better. They can significantly improve the efficiency of processes, make information more accessible and open up new opportunities in various fields. Thanks to IT, there are opportunities to solve problems faster, as well as open up prospects for creating new solutions that can improve people's quality of life. Artificial intelligence is no longer just a temporary trend, but a powerful tool that significantly changes the market and approaches to business. It is important to understand that the integration of AI into projects and companies is not only an opportunity for growth, but also a prerequisite for success.

Are you already working in your specialty?

- Yes, I am currently working on artificial intelligence in the UAE and VR/AR in Egypt, as well as participating in projects for other companies.

Will you leave for your homeland or will you stay to work in Russia?

- I will stay in Russia to continue developing my project, but I will visit my family. I plan to invite them here in the future.

How do you see yourself in 5 years?

- In 5 years, I plan to have a large company that will successfully operate in Russia and occupy a leading position in the market. I also want to be an active investor, as I have always been interested in investing. My goal is not only to create a successful business, but also to contribute to economic development and innovation in Russia. I am confident that with determination and hard work I will be able to overcome all obstacles, including those that may arise for international students, and in 5 years I will be able to be proud of my success.

You became the best foreign graduate from ITIS this year. What do you think your success came from?

- The best foreign graduate is not just an honorary title, but the result of four years of hard work, faith in a dream and overcoming many difficulties. Over the years, I have been moving towards my main goal — getting a red diploma. Now it has already been achieved, and there is only a solemn moment of presentation ahead. For me, this moment is not just the end of an important stage, but also the beginning of a new chapter. I am proud of what I have achieved: participation in international projects, active student support, mentoring, involvement in university events and Olympiads, as well as numerous academic successes. These achievements have become an integral part of my growth and development. Many thanks to the ITIS Institute and everyone who supported me on this path. You not only taught me the profession, but also helped me to believe in myself and my strengths. Without your support, this success would not have been possible.

Wish something to foreign applicants who plan to enroll in ITIS.

- My wish to foreign applicants who plan to enroll in ITIS is not to be afraid to set high goals and strive for them. This path can be difficult, but with perseverance and hard work you will be able to overcome all difficulties. It is important not to forget about your aspiration and always move forward, step by step. If you have a dream and you are ready to work for its realization, then it will definitely come true. Everything is in your hands!