Meet Gleb, a sophomore Business Major from Russia. Although a passionate basketball player, Gleb keeps his grades up, aspiring to a full life beyond sports. He feels that studying business at an international university will create more opportunities for various options later in life.

How did you discover LCC?

I learned about LCC International University from one of my friends, who knew some people studying here. My plan always was to play basketball while studying, and I learned that LCC provided this option. This is one of the leading reasons why I chose to study here as it is important for me. Also, I liked the idea of studying in English. Many professors come from the United States or universities from western countries, and they truly are experts in their respective fields. In addition, I enjoy the intercultural community aspect of LCC. I believe that connections with people are one of the main ways to succeed in life, and LCC is an excellent place to build such relationships, be it with other students or professors. In this way, I can also expand my knowledge about different cultures and countries. All in all, LCC is preparing me for the future in multiple different ways simultaneously which can help create opportunities for me later in life.

What can you tell me about your hobbies and interests when growing up?

Growing up I was a very active child, leading a healthy lifestyle. I would often indulge in cycling, fishing in the lakes, or even hiking in the hills and mountains of Russia. I did read books too to gain knowledge. I mostly did sports, though. I tried the sport of swimming for five years and judo for six years, for example. Once basketball became a part of my life, I had different training sessions every single day. Eventually, I decided to stick only to basketball for various reasons.

What does basketball mean in your life?

It means a lot to me. I have been playing basketball seriously for some 10 years now. I particularly enjoy that basketball is not only just a physical game but an intellectual one as well, where teamwork is important. I love meeting new friends, and all the emotions that come with the game, too. I got into this sport when I was a kid. A coach came to my primary school once, and he invited me to practice. I found it interesting and I continued playing. Also, my dad had been a basketball player before, so he encouraged and supported me. I’m sure this had an impact too.

Let’s talk about academics. Why did you decide to become a business major?

I believe that business can open a lot of possibilities for me. I can learn finance as well as management, while some international relations courses can also help me in the future. In the field of sports, you can never be 100% sure of your future. Injuries and other things do happen. I like having options beyond sports. If I was to build a career in business, I would probably start off working for some corporation or company to gain real-life experience. Afterward, I would like to do something like be a sports agent or something like that. I would be excited about that, I think.

You have a rather high GPA. What is your secret to success in both sports and academics?

I do suppose I learned this when I was a child. I was active and always doing things, but I always found time for everything. Sports helped me too. In order to be successful in sports, you have to give your absolute everything. I don’t want to waste my time. I don’t want to lose a day. So, while at LCC I want to get the most that I can. The way I see it, if I complete my education without the knowledge, then it won’t be of any use. Knowledge is crucial especially in business because you have to deal with problems yourself, if you’re running a business, for example. Knowledge prepares you for any kind of future.

What can you share about your plans for the future?

I want to build a successful career no matter what I am doing. I want to be able to make a good life for my family and to experience various amazing things. I would love to play basketball, but it really depends on health and injuries, as well as many other things. I would enjoy having a business somehow related to sports. But right now, I am focusing on today. I seize the day. The future can bring anything, so I do not spend a lot of time thinking about it.