Two first-year students in NU’s BSc in Geology—Alina Aitzhanova (Astana, NIS) and Akzhol Bolat (Taldykorgan, NIS)—share why they chose Nazarbayev University’s School of Mining & Geosciences (SMG): modern labs, real fieldwork, and professors who mentor from day one.
Their stories show the SMG promise in action: early research opportunities, rigorous practical training, and a clear path from classroom to career.
Why SMG at Nazarbayev University
- Hands-on from the start. Students access microscopes, mineral collections, and lab classes in the first year—not just later in the degree.
- Fieldwork across Kazakhstan. Structured field schools and mapping camps connect theory with real terrains, samples, and datasets.
- Mentorship that matters. Faculty guide students to think systematically, connect Earth processes, and analyze real data—not just memorize.
- Early research access. SMG encourages students to join faculty-led projects and pursue internships in Kazakhstan and abroad.
- International teaching culture. Courses are delivered in English by professors with global experience and active research profiles.
Teaching That Changes Trajectories
Assistant Professor George Paul Mathews exemplifies SMG’s approach: combine fundamentals with practical, research-grade skills.
“Practical lessons in identifying rocks and minerals with Assistant Professor George Paul Mathews made complex ideas clear and helped my transition into university studies.”
— Alina Aitzhanova, BSc in Geology
“SMG professors trained us to think in systems, connect processes, and analyze real data. Reading scientific papers early on sparked my curiosity even more.”
— Akzhol Bolat, BSc in Geology
What You’ll Study (Examples)
- Mineralogy; Igneous, Metamorphic & Sedimentary Petrology
- Structural Geology & Geomorphology
- Geochemistry & Environmental Geology
- Mapping, Field Methods, and Data Analysis
- Electives and student-led topics linked to current faculty research
Student Spotlights
Alina Aitzhanova — BSc in Geology, SMG
Why NU & SMG: “Strong academics, modern laboratories, and real fieldwork across Kazakhstan. Geology balances my love for nature with solving real challenges around resources and sustainability.”
Academic interests: Mineralogy, geochemistry, environmental geology.
Next steps: Join student-led research, pursue internships with mining and environmental organizations, prepare for international projects in sustainable resource management.
Advice: “Ask questions, try new things, and love what you study. At NU, you join a community that builds both research and soft skills.”
Akzhol Bolat — BSc in Geology, SMG
Why NU & SMG: “Geology connects research, fieldwork, and real problem solving. I chose NU for its academic strength and the chance to do research from day one.”
Academic interests: Structural geology and geomorphology, especially how interacting processes shape landforms.
Next steps: Contribute to faculty projects, build strong field experience, and engage in internships in Kazakhstan and abroad.
Advice: “Don’t be afraid of mistakes—learn by doing and grow through challenges.”
Outcomes You Can Expect
- Technical mastery: Rock/mineral identification, thin-section microscopy, structural analysis, basic geochemical methods.
- Field competence: Map reading, sampling, logging, and safety.
- Analytical skills: Data interpretation, report writing, and communication.
- Career readiness: Exposure to industry practices and research methods that translate to internships and graduate study.
Why Apply Now
- SMG’s integrated model—labs + field + mentorship—accelerates learning from the first semester.
- Real faculty time—small-group practicals and access to research labs build confidence and capability early.
- A growing network—links to industry and public institutions create pathways to internships and careers.