New section - Interviews with AUCA staff members

January 10, 2013

Battalova Saniya Salihzyanovna

Associate Vice-President for Planning and Assessment

Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Bishkek, but my parents are from Russia. My father was born not far from Kazan, and my mother is from the Ulyanov region. At the end of 1930s, their families were forced to leave Russia, which led to my parents meeting in Kyrgyzstan.

I graduated with honors with a degree in Automated Production Control from Frunze Polytechnic Institute (Kyrgyz Technical University), and in 2005 earned another degree in Organizational Management from the Social Development and Entrepreneurship Institute. At the moment I am working on my PhD, which is dedicated to the analysis of information management at the corporate level.
I think when I was entering the polytechnic institute I knew I was getting a good technical education, but did not realize how it would affect my future profession. “Polytech” was one of the leading universities of the Soviet Union. There was a perfect combination of academics and professional faculty. I think my education has been the building block for all of my self-development.

Where have you previously worked?

After graduating I worked several years in the design department of an electronic data processing machine. I still remember my colleagues and their creativity, positivity, encouragement, and professionalism. That environment was very good for me. After that came the 90s: I got married, gave birth, and for several years I didn’t work anywhere. By that time the computer factory had closed, and I started to work at the National Library of the Kyrgyz Republic as a leading specialist for information technology, specializing in law. After that I worked as the chief of automation at the library, and then as deputy director for automation and innovative technologies at the National Library of Kyrgyz Republic.

How did you come to AUCA?

In October 2002, Kamila Dushebaevna Sharshekeeva invited me to AUCA to work as library director. It was a hard decision for me. I had to complete a few projects at National Library and start the reorganization of the AUCA library at the same time.

What do you especially like about AUCA?

The primary reason I joined AUCA was the opportunity to be ambitious. I had the support of the administration, the work was very interesting, and, most importantly, there was a vision for what the university could be. For example, we developed several projects developing collections with OSI, SAIBER Foundation, and other organizations in the Kyrgyz Republic and abroad. We had to widen and modernize the library. The administration gave us a lot of flexibility, and our initiative and professionalism were put to the test. I call this the AUCA spirit. It is what allows us to create and achieve above expectations.

What is the most important to you?

Having confidence that people near to me are healthy and happy.

What musical instrument would you like to learn to play?

I wanted to learn to play the piano. In my childhood I never had enough patiene. I spent all my time playing sports, and made it to the national team in track and field. I have taken a few lessons on the ooz-komuz. I find the instrument enigmatic and kind of magical.

Do you think that pets take on the appearance of their owners?

I won’t say anything about external features, but the mood and character of pets and their owners are rather alike. I had a French bulldog, and he had a very determined and hard character, but he loved me very much and was devoted. Maybe it just seems like this, but your pets can “feel” you without words, understand you through your mood, support you, and give you all their love and warmth.

Which three things would you take to a deserted island?

Only three?! It is impossible to say. I take a lot of unnecessary things even to inhabited countries, and I have no idea what I would do without my things.

What is the most unique gift you ever received?

Any gift, which is made from heart, is always unique and original. All presents are valuable to me. Of course, I remember all of the greeting cards and handicrafts made by my son.
Which cuisine do you prefer?
I can’t choose. I have no special food preferences, and I like any cuisine as long as it tastes good.

What advice would you offer to a friend?

Do not be discouraged by failure. In addition, everyone must have any hobby.

What helps you make decisions in difficult situations?

First of all, I rely on my experience and my intuition. Another thing that helps me is to have a small group of people that I trust around me.

If you could do a world tour where would you go?

I would go on a real journey, taking years to explore every country's nooks and crannys. I don't know that this trip has a specific route yet, but I will think longer about it now that you have asked.

What is your favorite color?

It depends on my mood. I like red and black.

Who are your favorite writers?

Among classic authors Dostoyevskiy, and among modern writers V. Pelevin.

Your best wishes and advice for our readers?

I wish everyone family happiness and love. Each new year brings within itself a little miracle. I wish everyone the strength and focus to complete their goals. The world is so beautiful, and I wish the opportunity to see it.

Other stories you can find every week on http://auca.kg/en/p16861637/

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