A Russian Rendez-vous

This summer I gratefully embarked upon an unforgettable journey to the mysterious and great country of Russia. Earlier this year, I was awarded a scholarship through NYSAFLT and Linkages in Rochester to travel to Velikiy Novgorod, Russia and teach for two weeks. As I arrived, I couldn’t deny the stereotypical picture that we, as Americans paint in our minds about Russia: fur hats, babushkas, vodka, communism, bears and snow. I now giggle at the silly images I conjured up and can’t wait to share the truth about these wonderful people and their country! When it comes down to it, Russians are so much like we are. They share the same concerns, goals and want the best for their children. I was able to experience these similarities personally because I lived with one of the teacher’s while I was there. My now dear friend, Raisa, welcomed me into her home with open arms and fed me more Russian food than I thought I could ever consume! We had wonderful conversations; she took me shopping, exploring the town, and explained the differences of daily life in Russia.

My goal in Velikiy Novgorod was to teach an English language refresher course to approximately 35 Russian foreign language teachers. My curriculum was based on current events, popular topics such as food, school and travel, and to make cultural comparisons. I have to honestly say that I learned as much from my new Russian colleagues as they did from me! We laughed about false stereotypes, slang phrases and explored different teaching methodologies. What I found most striking, is how much these teachers do each day. When you ask a foreign language teacher in Russia, “What level do you teach?” They say, “All of them.” I was astounded to find out that many of these teachers literally have more than seven preps!

Each day the class met from 9am to 1pm, afterwards one of the teachers would offer to take me out on an excursion around town. Velikiy Novgorod has so much to offer because of its long and tumultuous history. In fact, they are currently celebrating 1150 years of history this year! In addition to Velikiy Novgorod, I was able to travel to Saint Petersburg (breathtaking!) and Moscow. A simply amazing country with so much to explore.

This trip was especially important to me because I am now currently teaching a beginning Russian course as part of the Global Leadership Program at Hamburg High School. I had first studied Russian in the Army where I worked as a Russian and French linguist. Knowing my background, the administration at Hamburg approached me to ask if I would pilot a Russian class. The students are so enthusiastic and I am incredibly proud to be sharing my new Russian experiences with them. After making so many unexpected friends in Russia, I am hoping to link our American students with the students of my new Russian colleagues. We are looking forward to bridging the gap between our cultures through letters, emails, and Skype.

In closing, I would like to thank NYSAFLT and Linkages for this incredible opportunity. Having knowledge of each other’s cultures is so crucial in understanding our global community. So raise your glass (of vodka, of course) and this toast is to you: На здоровье!

Written by: Sheri Green

P.S. Not to encourage the spread of false stereotypes…but I did actually see a “pet” bear on a leash in Saint Petersburg…