Russian LBAT Overview
Just a little about the program so far. I am on week 4, and it has been a great experience. We have class Mon-Thurs from 9-2. Depending on the classes sometimes we will get out early, and I have no complaints about the three day weekends. One class is strictly an in-depth structure and grammar course, the second a speaking session, and the third is a lecture on Contemporary Russia. This class is my favorite. Here, we learn about Russian government, politics, and economics, as well as the struggles and benefits Russia possesses currently. I am currently pursuing a project regarding Russian missile defense policy.
On another note, so far my class has gotten to see the Kremlin with the Cathedral of the Dormition & Cathedral of Archangel Michael, the Palace of the Romanov Boyers, Red Square, toured Moscow seeing the famous МГУ (Moscow State University) and World War II Victory Memorial, and more. It has been utterly astonishing to see the mix of intricate and exquisite Italian architecture from the Romanov Dynasty to the plain and soft Soviet style. There are beautiful spots in this huge city just waiting to be found.
The city constantly grows more and more friendly every day as my language skills continue to improve. English is known by only a select few, so stuff like ordering train tickets and buying juice has been incredibly challenging. Although I cannot wait to see how much my Russian language skills have improved when all is said and done.
To think this all started with my three classmates and I taking Russian as freshman with no idea that the future would bring us here.