Russian Language Residents

2025-2026 Academic Year: Rokhila Saidasanova

Tell us something special about your hometown.

I’m from Tajikistan, a beautiful mountainous country in Central Asia. I was born and raised in the capital city, Dushanbe, but my family roots go back to the Pamir region in the west of the country. The Pamirs, often called the “Roof of the World,” are known for their breathtaking mountain landscapes, unique culture, and ancient traditions. Dushanbe, on the other hand, is a lively and modern city with wide boulevards, green parks, and a vibrant mix of cultures. While I deeply value my Pamiri heritage, I’ve always loved the energy and rhythm of city life in Dushanbe, where I grew up.

Tell us what you studied at the university and what you might like to do one day?

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the American University of Central Asia in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan—another beautiful country in Central Asia known for its strong academic environment. I truly enjoyed studying sociology; it’s one of the most fascinating social sciences I’ve encountered. Learning about different theories and frameworks has helped me understand how societies function and how people behave in various contexts. I believe this knowledge has made it easier for me to adapt to new environments and connect with diverse groups of people.

Over time, through internships, volunteer work, and real-world experience, I discovered a strong passion for education. Since 2020, I’ve been working as a teacher of English and Russian, and I’ve also supported professors as a teaching assistant whenever I could. These experiences helped me realize that I’d like to continue in the field of sociology, but with a focus on education—combining my love for research and teaching. In the future, I hope to explore how education systems can evolve and improve through a sociological lens.

Tell us about a favorite activity that you pursue when you have free time?

One of my favorite activities in my free time is going for long walks while listening to music. It’s my personal form of therapy—a way to be alone with my thoughts, reflect, and recharge. I often walk around my neighborhood or through the many green parks in my city, enjoying the peaceful environment. On weekends, I love driving outside the city with friends to go hiking. Spending time in nature helps me reconnect with my roots, especially since my family is originally from the Pamir region, a breathtakingly mountainous part of Tajikistan. Although it’s far from Dushanbe, being in the hills and forests nearby helps me feel close to that part of my heritage.

Past Russian Language Residents