American Students Delve into Russian Language, Culture, and History

© HSE University

On February 1, a group of American students started their short-term on-campus study programme at HSE University. During three months, the students will take courses in post-Soviet Russian history, contemporary Russian domestic and foreign policy, social anthropology, and a practical course of Russian as a Foreign Language.

The programme is part of long-standing cooperation between HSE University and Middlebury College (USA). The classes help students expand their knowledge of Russia and improve their Russian language skills. Traditionally held in person, the programme had to be temporarily suspended due to COVID-related restrictions in 2020 and 2021.

In a welcome session with Ivan Prostakov, HSE Vice Rector for International Activities, and Oksana Chernenko, Director for Innovations in Education, students talked about themselves, their reasons for participating in the programme, and their expectations of their time in Russia. The group includes students of Russian history, culture and economics, as well as Russian language and literature, who are interested in Russian-American relations.

Ivan Prostakov, HSE University Vice Rector

‘I hope that during your stay and your courses you will understand that our peoples and our countries have much in common.’

During the meeting, held in Russian, the University representatives told the students about the history of HSE University and the specifics of the educational process. They encouraged students to dive deeper into contemporary Russian literature and also take every opportunity to explore the beauty of the Moscow underground and the amazing snowy Russian winter.

Nana Tsikhelashvili, Head of the Middlebury College Programme in Russia

 We are very excited to have American students here in Russia! Despite ongoing difficulties, including the pandemic, political tensions, and bureaucratic hassle, they are in Moscow. They are very determined and smart young people, who are really interested in learning the Russian language and discovering contemporary Russian culture. They are eager to study and explore life in Moscow and hope to make good friends among their Russian peers!

Julia Powell, Williams College, USA

I decided to study abroad in Russia because I am a Russian and Economics double major. I started studying Russian four years ago in Moldova on a US State Department Program, and I sincerely enjoyed the language. My interest in Russian was peaked because of my love for Russian Literature. I wanted to study at HSE in Moscow because I could further explore both economics and Russian Language while exploring Russia’s beautiful capitol!