Russia Through the Eyes of Chinese Students: Transformation of Perception and Barriers to Social Adaptationin the Academic Environment(Using the Example of Universities in Siberia and the Far East)

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of social adaptation of Chinese students in Russian universities it is focused on the analysis of their perception of Russian dynamic, key integration issues and factors infl the success of adaptation process. The empirical basis consists of the results of 544 Chinese students studying at the universities in Siberia and the Far East survey (2023-2025). It is revealed that the students' initial ideas about Russia are formed under the infl of stereotypes such as harsh climate, image of the «European part» of the country, etc., which leads to a cognitive dissonance when confronted with the realities of provincial cities. The main barriers to adaptation are related to 1) urban infrastructure (road conditions, public transport); 2) organizational culture (low effi of bureaucratic procedures); 3) household practices (eating habits, smoking restrictions); 4) social interaction (language barrier, differences in communication norms). Factors which show the positive attitude to Russia include the interest in Russian culture (music, literature), natural attractions (Lake Baikal), and the goodwill of local residents. The majority of respondents demonstrate a balanced attitude towards Russia, avoiding extreme assessments (61% chose neutral positions on a 5-point scale). Based on the data, recommendations for optimizing the adaptation mechanisms are proposed: the expansion of preliminary informing of students about the regional peculiarities; the development of cultural support programs; the creation of platforms for intercultural interaction. The study confi the need to take into account socio-cultural differences in order to strengthen the position of Russian education in the international market and deepen the Russian-Chinese cooperation.