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"What are your own goals (and/or rationale) for studying Russian at the University of Iowa? How has/is the UI Russian Program helping you to achieve them?" |
| The main reason I came to Iowa was to study in the Russian department. I was originally planning only to minor in Russian, but am now looking at double majoring. I wouldn't have considered double majoring when I first came to the University, but I have received such encouragement from all my teachers and such an excellent quality of education that I am really looking forward to continuing my education in Russian, both at the university and abroad. |
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Channing
Carter, Third Year Russian
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| When I came to the U of I as a transfer student from ISU I knew that I wanted to do some sort of International Studies, but I wasn't sure what region of the world I wanted to study. I hadn't been satisfied with the program at ISU and wanted to find a program that would allow me to specialize in an geographic area of study and prepare me for Graduate school. I got involved in the Russian department through the language classes because I thought that it would be something interesting and a little bit different. I couldn't have made a better decision. Of all the departments I've experienced at two different universities I've never worked with a faculty that is more willing to assist you in all of your endeavors, both inside and outside the classroom. The last 3 years have at times been frustrating and challenging, but the department has always been there for me, and continues to be as I prepare to Study abroad in St. Petersburg and move towards graduation. |
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Aaron
Roberson, Senior
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| Russian is
the University of Iowa's best-kept secret. The language is difficult but
rewarding, and the professors are all dedicated to helping students learn.
If you want to learn things nobody else at the UI is learning, if you want
exposure to some of the most fascinating literature ever written, if you
want to learn about this important part of the modern world, if you want
a challenge - Russian is an option to consider. I entered the UI without a clear idea of what I wanted to do after graduating, and Russian has helped me narrow that down. I've realized that language is the key to understanding, and thus foreign language is one way to build better relations among people and nations around the globe. I plan on joining the Peace Corps for two years of service in the former Soviet Union, possibly as an English teacher. Although I don't know what I'll be doing after that, I hope that Russian language will continue to be part of my life. |
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Frank Swoboda
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| I study the
Russian language because of my interest in things Russian and the challenge
involved. The University of Iowa Department of Russian has a unique atmosphere
in which to study. The department is filled with amazing instructors and
students of all interests and backgrounds. The most attractive aspect of the department to me is its community outside the classroom. There is a comradely present in the Russian Department that distinguishes it from all others at the university. If you are considering studying Russian, be prepared to make instant and lasting friendships while learning one of the most complex and challenging languages on earth. |
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Joseph Tofilon
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| My
personal goal is to both incorporate and develop the use of Russian language
into my future career. To foster new relationships with individuals interested
in the continual pursuit of positive changes in Russia. To achieve satisfaction
in being a part of these changes. I feel the Russian Department provides outstanding opportunities for students to explore linguistic and cultural diversities which are strongly needed in today's society. This is evident in current world events, especially concerning Russia's continual efforts to build a strong democratic and economic society. Faculties are able to guide students and prepare them to meet these challenges. |
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Stephen
Sullivan
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| In the spring
of 1999, I received a scholarship from AFROTC with a Russian Major Stipulation.
I chose Russian because of how amazing the country and language are and
because of how little I knew about them. I wanted to do a foreign language
and Russian seemed like one of the most challenging and rewarding languages
to explore. After 3 years here at the university, I remain confident in
my decision. The Russian department is spectacular. No other way to describe it. The staff has a true passion to teach people how to speak Russian, and educate about the rich culture of the Russian country and people. I respect and admire ALL my professors because of their extensive knowledge of the culture and for their fluency in speech. Their dedication, love for teaching and their students put them in a special place in my heart. There is no way not to feel at home at University of Iowa if you In other words, I've had a great time being a Russian major and am elated that I've had such wonderful people to teach me about the world, life, and especially how to speak Russian |
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