Careers with Russian Studies: Alumni Panel and Reunion at ECU

Careers with Russian Studies

he Russian Studies program hosted a panel “Careers with Russian Studies,” with five alumni of the program who shared their post-graduate and career paths with current students. ECU graduates in Russian Studies paired with Security Studies, Political Science, Criminal Justice, ROTC, and other areas discussed their transition to graduate programs, their study abroad experiences, and their employment in the military and government sector. A lively discussion followed with the audience of 50 attendees.

Panelist Jason Port shared his experience completing a master’s program at UNC-CH and obtaining work in the Department of Defense. Michael Carniero discussed his graduate program at NC State and career in the Secret Service. Rachel Davis talked about her work as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Air Force. Sky Chernauskus shared her experience working in human intelligence and open-source intelligence with private contracting firms such as Booz Allen Hamilton. Chase Neese discussed his two study abroad experiences – in Moscow and Uzbekistan – and obtaining a Fulbright grant for a year abroad.

The evening also served as an informal Alumni Reunion for Russian Studies alumni and ten to fifteen alumni returned to campus, some driving in from out of state. A gathering followed at Hardware Restaurant and Bar on 5th Street and a good time was ha