Akerke Assylbekova and Margarita Cherkasskaya are both postgraduate students majoring in Russian interpretation at Shanghai International Studies University, or SISU. Living in the same dormitory, they spent a long time adjusting to each other as roommates.

Akerke likes to get up and go to bed early, while Margarita often stays up late. To address the issues caused by their different sleep schedules, both made compromises. Margarita would go to the laundry room in their dorm to study quietly at night. Akerke would go to sleep wearing a watch with a vibration alarm so as not to wake up Margarita in the morning.

They also have many differences in their daily routines. For example, Margarita prefers to wear headphones to listen to music while the other does not; Akerke enjoys using strong perfumes while the other is sensitive to smells.

Akerke and Margarita take a mirror selfie. [Photo/WeChat account: Study_in_SISU]

Despite these differences, they became family to each other through patience, compromise, and selflessness. Margarita said that when she needs support, she doesn't hesitate to ask Akerke for help because she knows that no matter what, Akerke will always stand by her side.

The two see a performance of the Russian ballet together. [Photo/WeChat account: Study_in_SISU]

Akerke mentioned that the most important thing is to protect the relationship that they have developed. She tends to tell others about her feelings in a tactful way, without saying anything that may hurt them. Margarita added that it is harmful to hold others to their standards since no one is perfect. Mutual understanding is always best.

Source: "Study_in_SISU" WeChat account