M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU)

Its easy to pick and choose, but my department was not comparable to the academic standards of my home university. However, I suspected that before going and was not hugely disappointed--the social capital you will get is worth it. My biggest pet peeve was the library--very difficult to borrow books, you have to stand in line for a long time (hours, sometimes) to check something out, and you cannot even take it home.

Most classes did not evaluate students until the final exams.

I was already fluent in Russian and knew Russian culture. My goal was to experience Russian student life, and that goal was accomplished.

People that I have talked to all had positive feedback, but Russia can make your life difficult if you don't know some of the unwritten rules of bureaucracy there.

Most things are dirt-cheap. I found that a cell phone is cheaper than installing a stationary phone, so I did not have one. Transportation is very cheap, however, if you travel outside of Moscow, a hotel can be pricey. I stayed with friends, so I don't know how much people paid.

The appartment market in Moscow is not easy to navigate, and it is easy to be ripped off. The dorm is close to campus and you meet other students easily that way.