To celebrate National Unity Day, the Department of Russian Language and Intercultural Communication, Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Students and Head of the Department of International Relations organised a special journey for international students - a rich program designed not just to teach history, but to let them feel the heartbeat of Russia.

The adventure began with a dive into 1612, learning of the heroes Minin and Pozharsky. From history, they stepped into a virtual walk across Red Square, counting the Kremlin's towers and making wishes to the sound of its famous chimes.

The exploration continued at the "Night at the Museum" in the Herzen Library. Students wandered through an exhibition of plein-air sketches, traveling on canvas from Kaliningrad to Karelia and from the Urals to the Black Sea.

A surprising twist awaited at the "Extraordinary Stories of an Ordinary Spoon" exhibit. Here, a simple household item transformed into a storyteller of global traditions, showcasing spoons from across eras and cultures. But the real magic happened at a concert by the Folklore School of Art, where teachers and young artists turned these same spoons into musical instruments. The rhythmic melodies of Russian and world folk tunes offered a stunning new perspective on the familiar.

The journey culminated at the House of Peoples' Friendship with a vibrant concert of dance. For students from Bangladesh and India, with their own deep dance heritage, the performance resonated powerfully. The stage became a living map of cultures - featuring Russian, Armenian, Lezginka, Cossack, Moldovan, and Mari dances - each number a vibrant expression of national identity.

More than a series of events, this celebration was an invitation. It allowed international students to touch the soul of Russia - through its history, its vast nature, its ingenious creativity, and its joyful, unifying traditions - making a true sense of connection and belonging.