BELARUS STATE
ECONOMIC UNIVERSITY

21.10.2026

"I enjoyed every single second on stage!": An interview with the winner of the "Student of the Year 2026" competition

BSEU has announced the results of its most anticipated event: the "Student of the Year 2026" competition. Representatives from ten different faculties showcased their talents, leadership skills, and creative potential in a vivid and compelling way. After a hard-fought contest, the title was claimed by Anna Gailova, a student from the Faculty of Finance and Banking. We spoke with the winner about her journey to triumph, her emotions on stage, and the secrets behind her success.

— Think back to the moment your name was called out from the stage. What was your first reaction—shock, tears of joy, or the realization that all those sleepless nights had finally paid off?

— When my name was announced, I was in complete shock—for a split second, it didn't even feel like it was happening to me. I was overjoyed to bring this victory home to my faculty. In that moment, it hit me that all those sleepless nights and long hours of rehearsal hadn't been in vain. I could hear my supporters cheering and genuinely celebrating; the immense faith they had in me was truly breathtaking. It was an absolutely incredible feeling!

— The "Student of the Year" competition tests you on every front—from intellect and public speaking to creative performances. Which stage did you find the most challenging, and which one gave you the biggest rush?

— Public speaking was a major challenge for me. But because I was speaking from the heart and sharing a personal story, the words came from deep within—I genuinely wanted to be heard. My creative performance combined immense technical difficulty with incredible energy. I had to pour every ounce of my voice, energy, and emotion into it to showcase the full extent of my capabilities. I really wanted to share my mood with the judges and the audience, and judging by the reaction in the hall, I succeeded. I enjoyed every single second I spent on stage!

— Behind every striking stage performance, there is always a support team. Who helped you backstage, came up with ideas for your acts, and believed in your victory right up to the final?

— As soon as I found out I would be performing at the "Student of the Year" competition and representing my faculty, everyone around me insisted that I would succeed—that I would represent the faculty well and place among the winners. Yet, I couldn't quite believe it myself until the very last moment. My friends and family were all there for me. I want to express a huge thank you to my student cultural organizers; they were always by my side, helping with everything and ensuring that things remained calm and fun. I also owe a great deal to my vocal coach, Maria Yakovlevna Rumyantseva, from the BSEU vocal studio "Kolibri."

— Studying at BSEU requires a high level of focus, and preparing for a competition like this takes hundreds of hours. How did you manage to balance your studies and rehearsals without burning out?

— My friends, family, and the cultural organizers helped me through it all—I always received tremendous support from them. Yes, it was both emotionally and physically demanding, but when you have your own people by your side, everything works out. You know you aren't alone—that there are people there who will always listen and help you through the difficult moments.

— This year’s finalists are all incredibly strong and brilliant individuals. What specific personal quality or unique trait do you think helped you win over the jury and the audience?

— In the days leading up to the "Student of the Year" competition, I was very anxious—wondering how my performance would go, how the events would unfold, and how I would be evaluated. But on the day itself, I relaxed, enjoyed the experience, and simply did what I love most. I sang, shared my smiles and my energy—I was just being myself.

— What does being named BSEU’s "Student of the Year" mean to you personally, and how has the university shaped your character during your time here?

— For me, "Student of the Year" is an incredible honor—a milestone I once wouldn't have even dared to dream of. This title serves to show others that behind such accolades is an ordinary person—someone who studies, builds friendships, and finds joy in life. Anything is achievable if you have loyal people by your side, along with a strong desire and a capacity for hard work. I genuinely hope to serve as an example for others and help them believe in their own potential. I want everyone who looks at my journey to tell themselves: "If she could do it, then I can certainly do it too!"

— What are your interests outside of the classroom and the stage? How do you like to spend your free time in Minsk to recharge?

— I love discovering new places and spending time with my friends. It doesn’t really matter where we are—whether it’s over a cup of tea in a dorm room, taking a stroll through a park in the evening, or attending a theater premiere—what matters is having the right people by my side. And the best way for me to recharge after the hustle and bustle is to go home to my family. I always feel their incredible support and unconditional love.

— The title of "Student of the Year" serves as an excellent springboard. What professional and personal goals have you set for yourself now?

— I want to continue developing within my future profession. However, I will never abandon my creative pursuits or singing—these are things that are a part of me and always will be.

— What advice would you give to students who dream of applying next year but are currently afraid they might not succeed or feel too shy to get on stage?

— I would tell them: never be afraid of anything! Anything is possible if you put in the effort, surround yourself with the right people, and set clear goals—then everything will surely work out. Yes, things might get difficult at times, but the challenges we face only make us stronger. So, set your goals, work hard, and strive for what you want—you will succeed!

Results of the "Student of the Year 2026" competition:
•        1st place — Anna Gaylova (FFBD)
•        2nd place — Maria Kabayeva (FKTI)
•        3rd place — Beatrisiya Okarskaya (FEM)

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