‘Rediscovering Russia’: HSE Students Create a Development Strategy for the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov Estate

In mid-July 2024, 18 students from various HSE campuses (Perm, Nizhny Novgorod, Saint Petersburg, and Moscow) participated in an expedition to Nizhny Novgorod Oblast to develop elements of a promotional strategy for the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov estate. This project was conceived as part of the School of Snow 3.0 inter-campus expedition and was the winner of the ‘Rediscovering Russia’ competition. We’d like to share the results of the expedition as well as the impressions of the participants.

The project was led by Elena Sannikova, Head of the Support Unit for Projects at HSE University in Perm, and Vitaliy Mingalev, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Humanities at HSE University—Perm. The goal of the expedition was to develop elements of a comprehensive development strategy for the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov estate. To achieve this, the project team conducted desk research and archival work on the estate's history, studied its legal status as a cultural heritage site, conducted fieldwork, familiarised themselves with best practices, and presented the preliminary results of their research to an expert committee.

During the expedition, the students not only conducted research and improved their professional skills, but also learned about the history and attractions of Nizhny Novgorod and the region. In addition, the students visited the HSE University—Nizhny Novgorod campus, where they discussed cultural heritage preservation issues with Dmitry Sidorov, Head of the HSE Nizhny Novgorod Centre for Entrepreneurship.

Anna Agafonova, a first-year student at the School of Humanities and Arts at HSE University—Saint Petersburg

I was initially scared of the word ‘expedition.’ However, It turned out to be six days full of meeting enthusiastic people, where we built new experiences and actually changed something. I had a chance to put my knowledge into practice. And I fell in love with Nizhny Novgorod and the estate even more!

Polina Vanyukova, a second-year student at the Faculty of Management at HSE University—Nizhny Novgorod

The expedition to the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov estate made a great impression on me and inspired me to think deeply about the significance of cultural heritage sites. This estate with its rich history and unique architecture was a real discovery for me.

We had an opportunity to study archive materials, talk to locals, and hear their stories. Our project also included creating events to promote the estate and its history to a wider audience. Collaborating with the owner of the estate was an important part of our experience.

Anastasia Shiryaeva, a third-year student at the Faculty of Humanities at HSE University—Moscow

This project left a lasting impression on me. On the final day of the expedition, we presented the concept of 'Cybervillage Podvyazye,' which was well received by the estate owner and has the potential to inspire people to learn more about their history in the future. I hope that our ideas will come to life and bring a new phase of development to the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov estate.

Veronika Shubina, a second-year student at the Faculty of Computer Science, Economics, and Social Sciences at HSE University—Perm

Working as part of an interdisciplinary team was not only a real challenge but also a great pleasure! Each member brought something unique to the table. Some participants studied the legal side of the project, others proposed creative ideas for events, and still others came up with innovative marketing solutions. Our collaboration was a true example of synergy, where every voice was heard and valued.

We are hopeful that our ideas will become a reality, and the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov estate will become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Elena Sannikova, Head of the Support Unit for Projects at HSE University in Perm

In many ways, this expedition was both a challenge and a stroke of luck for us. We wanted to gather an inter-campus team as HSE University is comprised of four campuses that make up one institution. Additionally, our team was interdisciplinary because the goal required a truly comprehensive analysis of the estate.

There were many challenges during the expedition, but I am grateful that everything worked out thanks to our students and experts! This was an incredible experience for everyone, and I believe it was a step forward for preserving and revitalising the estate. However, the work is not finished. Students are revising their projects based on recommendations, and some will use this experience in their coursework.