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Our first assignment: a pre-departure essay. Here's mine.
This program in St. Petersburg is the realization of a dream for me. Not only to visit Russia, but to live and study in such a complex and relevant country. While I have traveled to many areas of the world, I have never had the experience of being fully immersed in a new culture. This will be the longest trip I have ever taken and by far the most fulfilling. With our own country and economy in turmoil right now, it will be very interesting to see for my own eyes another rapidly developing economy and changing political environment. I believe that Russia is on its way to again becoming a world power, and I am excited to be there at such an important time. As Dmitri Medvedev takes the reins from Putin, we will be able to see how the Russian public reacts and his true role as president while Putin still holds great political power.
The most important aspect of this program for me is the opportunity to learn in a Russian school with Russian teachers and other students. My most anticipated class is International Economic Relations. Russia is in a unique state as an emerging market that was once a superpower. I am interested in learning more about the economics and politics surrounding Russia's move from a centrally planned economy to a free market. Having a Russian teacher and participating in the field trips will really help me to get a firsthand look at the Russian perspective.
Another thing that I am really looking forward to is the immersion in culture and interaction with Russia and her people. It is my goal to blend in as well as possible so that I can get the full experience of living in St. Petersburg. So many people my age think that America is the greatest country in the world and that we are better and more civilized than other cultures. It is my aim to prove, at least to some of my friends, that they are wrong. I cannot wait to attend an opera or a ballet at the Mariinsky, spend days exploring the Hermitage, and see Moscow's famous circus.
Here are some links about our program, and to some interesting stuff I've found around the web.
The Program Website
A Little More About the Program
Thousands of Pictures of St. Petersburg
The St. Petersburg Times
An Article About What John McCain is Saying About Russia
Economist.com Articles on Russian Economy, Wonderful.
The Mariinsky Theatre, planning to see some ballet and opera there.
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