Living in the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) Hostels: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're considering living in the Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) hostels, you've come to the right place. This guide will take you through the experience of life in MAI's dormitories, with insights and tips from a resident. Let's explore what it's like to live in these spaces.

Living Space

The hostels at MAI are housed in an old building, which can be a bit challenging to adjust to for those used to more modern accommodations. Each living quarter houses 5 students, split into two rooms. One room can accommodate 3 people, while the other has space for 2. The shared bathroom and toilet can be quite small, and there's no guarantee of roommates being pleasant or easy to get along with. However, if you're selective and persistent, you can request a change in roommates.

Common Kitchen

The common kitchen is a communal space where residents prepare meals, but it can also present its own set of challenges. Each floor typically has 2 or 3 stoves, which are often old and slow to function. During busy times, such as dinner preparation, you'll need to queue for a stove. Additionally, some floors cater to students from specific regions, which can make the kitchen smell and look less appealing. On the bright side, the cleaning staffs work hard to keep the kitchen clean, even if it's not always perfect.

Laundry Facilities

Laundry facilities vary by floor. Some floors have common washing machines, some of which are free, and others pay-to-use. An additional note: the university has been known to deliberately damage the free machines to encourage the use of paid ones. Despite this, the laundry facilities can still be convenient if you manage to find one that works.

WiFi and Management

WiFi access depends on your room's location. In my room, the internet connection is good, and the speed is satisfactory. Management has taken steps to improve their relationship with students and staff, and maintenance staffs respond quickly to any issues you might face.

Gym and Fitness

The on-site gym might be a joke, as there is a better gym in a nearby building for Russian students. This secondary gym is also a dormitory and while it's not the pinnacle of fitness facilities, it's a better option than what's offered on site.

Commuting

The distance between the university and the dormitory can be significant, between 45 and 50 minutes by public transport. However, the university administration provides direct buses and trains, and the fastest route involves using a bus, metro, and tram combination. With a social card or Troika, commuting becomes much easier.

Extra Features and Tips

Additionally, there's a small volleyball court at the front of the building, making it a good spot for evening activities. The back of the building boasts a good forest area suitable for barbecue sessions and peaceful walks. The surrounding neighborhood is described as peaceful, and there are nearby grocery stores, some of which are open 24/7.

All in all, living in the MAI hostels can be a worthwhile investment if your primary goal is to save money. The experience has its ups and downs, much like any university dormitory, but with these insights, you're better prepared for what to expect.

The overall experience is similar to living in any dormitory, with a mixture of conveniences and challenges. Whether it's worth it for you depends on your priorities and how you value your living situation.