We are introducing a new section called "Thank you, alma mater!" This section will focus on graduates of the Belarusian National Technical University. Qualified engineers will tell you about their student years, distribution, and career development.
The series of interviews begins with the story of Anastasia Sliva (née Koleda), a graduate of the Energy Department at BNTU. As a student, she served as the secretary of the Energy Department's BRSM, participated in scientific research, organized events, and even assembled a 1.5-meter cardboard wind turbine. Today, Anastasia works at the Minsk Electric Networks branch of Minskenergo and has a bright future ahead of her.
Anastasia's choice of university was not accidental:
— I chose BNTU because it is the leading technical university in the country, and I have always considered it to be one of the leaders in producing well-qualified professionals in various fields. I considered several faculties, but my mother helped me make the final decision. My mother wanted me to pursue a technical degree, but at the time, I chose an economics major, although I now realize that I should have listened to her advice.
The student candidly admits that out of the many subjects she studied in her first year, she remembers those taught by professors who were both strict and warm in their interactions.
— To be honest, I can't remember all the subjects I've taken since my first year. I remember the subjects where the teachers were either strict and demanding, such as advanced mathematics, or where the teachers were more approachable, which made me want to learn more about the subject. However, the faculty itself played a significant role in shaping my personality, including the guidance and support provided by the faculty. Also, a huge contribution to my development from the point of view of science was made by my supervisor Daria Lapchenko.
— How did you manage to combine excellent studies, social work and personal life? Do you have a secret of time management?
— According to the horoscope, I am an Aries, this already says that in life I can go forward no matter what, the main thing is that I will achieve my goal. It was also during my studies: I initially set myself goals in advance and just every day quietly achieved them. And I think that this is a great step towards achieving your goals, because when you have a goal, you want to achieve it as soon as possible and get the desired result.
Over the past four years, Anastasia has participated in dozens of events and organized them herself.
— During my studies, I have participated in many events and organized various activities and promotions on my own. I really enjoy this, so it is difficult to choose just a few events from the list. However, I immediately remembered a project from my second year of study in the discipline "Renewable Energy Sources," where we were divided into mini-groups and had to choose one of the renewable energy sources and prove its effectiveness and cost-effectiveness for the Republic of Belarus. I remember that we chose wind energy, and I even made a cardboard wind turbine that was about 1.7 meters tall. Additionally, one of the most memorable events was the "Open Mic with the President of the Republic of Belarus," as not everyone gets the opportunity to attend such an event.
Working for the BRSM has become a place for the girl where she has developed qualities that are important for adult life – confidence and independence. Anastasia believes that the position of the secretary helped her to develop sociability, broaden her horizons, gain a large number of friends and acquaintances, and try herself in different directions.
Now, looking back, the graduate firmly believes that being an activist at the university is not an additional burden, but a necessity.
— Being an activist at the university is a necessity now! I believe that in our turbulent and eventful lives, it is boring and monotonous to do nothing. Moreover, there are so many benefits and opportunities available in any activity that can help you in the future. I have always told the younger generation that when you enter university, your goal is not only to gain knowledge and education, but also to accumulate as many memories and emotions as possible from your time as a student. This can be achieved through active participation in the university's activities. Therefore, students, do not waste your free time, but try to find your own direction among the available ones (and there are many of them at the university) and go for it!
— Remember the moment of distribution: what feelings did you have — excitement, hope, or confidence?
— I went to the distribution calmly and confidently, because I had found a place for myself on my own and the organization had sent an application to the university for me, so I was not worried and knew that everything would be fine.
Anastasia was assigned to the Minsk Electric Networks branch of Minskenergo, where she currently works. By that time, she had already completed two internships there, so she had a clear understanding of how the work process at the enterprises was organized.
Anastasia found the following advantages in her assignment:
— I believe that assignment is an excellent opportunity to "secure a place at the workplace," gain valuable experience, build up seniority, and take advantage of all the social benefits available to young professionals. You shouldn't be afraid of distribution, it's a good opportunity that just needs to be used correctly and skillfully.
Anastasia is confident that success in career and life is made up of simple but important elements.
— As they say, any experience is an experience. You shouldn't be afraid of mistakes, but you just need to be able to benefit from everything. The most important thing is to develop confidence, agility, and responsibility during your time as a student, these are the three tools that you will use throughout your life, and if you can combine them, success is guaranteed.
— What does it mean to be a BNTU graduate for you today? Are you proud of your alma mater?
— BNTU is love! I am extremely happy and proud to be a graduate of the best educational institution in the country. Thanks to BNTU, I have met the best people in my life, learned valuable life lessons, and matured here. I always remember my student years with warmth and gladly recommend everyone I know to come here!
Anastasia's advice to graduates who still need to be assigned is as follows:
— My advice to all graduates and students is that if you want a specific assignment, try to negotiate on your own, as this will show the employer your interest and responsibility. Try to get an internship at an organization that interests you, and get a part-time job there during your studies (if time and resources allow), so you can experience everything firsthand. This will make it much easier to determine your strengths and desires in the future.
Anastasia Sliva (née Koleda) story is not just about successful education and placement. It is a testament to the fact that student years can be a time of true maturity, where you learn not just for grades but for yourself, trying different things, making mistakes, and changing your plans until you find your place. For Anastasia, BNTU became more than just an alma mater; it became a space of opportunities. Her main advice to students is simple: don't be afraid to be active, don't sit still, and try your hand at community work, science, and projects. This way, your distribution will seem like a challenge rather than the start of a great career.
