ALUMNI

Rebecca (Canada)

I am a student studying business and the arts. Recently, I participated in the Krasnoyarsk, Russia study abroad program for six weeks during the Summer of 2001. Undoubtedly, it has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life to date. Not only did I have an opportunity to improve my academic skills and knowledge, but I was immersed in the lifestyle of a unique culture while in a fascinating country.

By January of 2001, I had decided that I wanted to spend my summer studying abroad, but I was not sure which program would be most suitable for me. I researched a number of different university-affiliated programs on the Internet. The Krasnoyarsk program appealed to me for several reasons. First, I was interested in immersing myself in a completely different culture. Russia, and more specifically Krasnoyarsk in Siberia, would give me this opportunity. Second, I wanted to arrange a program that would suit my academic goals. The Krasnoyarsk program was very flexible, and after contacting the director of the program, I could be sure my needs would be met. Third, I was very interested in pursuing a program to Russia and this was one of the very few that did not require proficiency in the language for participation. This was very fortunate for me since I did not have any background in Russian. For these reasons, I strongly considered the Oneonta-Krasnoyarsk program.

During my decision-making process, I was somewhat hesitant about the apparent "lack of structure" of the Krasnoyarsk program; the flight dates were flexible, there were no set number of students, and there was no daily itinerary available. This concerned me because I believed that only a highly structured program could guarantee my safety in a foreign country and maximize my experience (and my money). Therefore, I came very close to selecting a different abroad program. However, as I interacted more with Dr. Insinga, the director of the program, I began to realize that this "lack of structure" was actually a great attribute. It would allow me to construct an academic program that would fit very diverse desires: business and the performing arts. Dr.Insinga suggested a Field Studies course in which I could interview and work with managers of different arts companies. A Russian Culture course would give me a foundation for understanding the environment facing Russian people and Russian artists. A third course, Modern Russian Business, would provide me with information on the changes of the past ten years and the current business practices in the country. The content of this program, which had been specifically designed for me by Oneonta and the Aerospace Academy, was perfect. I made my decision that this program would be the best choice for meÉit so happens I was right.

After spending a few days in Moscow, I arrived with the Oneonta teaching staff in Krasnoyarsk in May. For the next five weeks, I attended classes at The Siberian Aerospace Academy. I found my courses to be immensely interesting and informative. By interacting with Russian professors, I learned through new teaching methods. Not only did the teachers demonstrate a superior understanding of their respective fields, but their worldly knowledge allowed them to compare and contrast different international systems. I finished my courses with a comprehension of the "big picture" of the subject area as well as supporting details and evidence. Moreover, my professors demonstrated outstanding hospitality. Some of my teachers invited me to their homes for dinner, took me to musical concerts, purchased additional materials for me, and demonstrated continual generosity and thoughtfulness. Prospective program students should not be concerned about potential difficulties due to language. All of my professors spoke English fluently or made use of an excellent translator.

I also found the Russian staff at The Aerospace Academy to be engaging and continually supportive. If I ever expressed concern or had any type of problem at all, it was immediately handled thoroughly and with care. At no time during my trip did I feel my safety or well-being was at risk. Furthermore, the administrators are interested in getting to know the international students, and they become members of a wonderful support network, academically and socially.

During my time in Krasnoyarsk, I lived with a Russian family. This was a great experience, and I would encourage prospective students to seriously consider choosing a home-stay as their form of accommodation. There was an Aerospace student my age in the family. I found my home-stay gave me a first-hand opportunity to understand how Russian people live. This, in turn, sheds light on the importance of cultural traditions and differing values. When it came time to leave, I was very disappointed to be leaving my Òsecond familyÓ.  

It is difficult to so briefly summarize my experience because, in reality, it was so full of various events and activities. If I were to describe every aspect of my trip, it would take at least ten pages. To truly understand what the program involves, it is necessary to personally experience it. However, I would highly recommend this program to any student who desires the opportunity to be immersed in a unique culture while studying in a field of his or her choice. I feel very privileged to have lived in Krasnoyarsk for five weeks, and I look forward to fostering the relationships that were established there. I am anxiously anticipating future opportunities to return to Russia and advance my understanding of this great country reflected through truly remarkable people.