Testimonials

Don’t just read about our program, hear directly from students of diverse backgrounds about how Russian Studies has shaped their academic and professional paths!

One of our students, Masha, is an Education major with minors in Russian Studies and Psychology. Adopted from Russia by an American family at the age of seven, she explains, “I always wanted to study and learn about the culture and country that holds my roots.”

Listen as Masha shares first-hand insight into why Russian Studies matters for Education majors, from gaining multicultural awareness to developing strong professional writing skills.

Elizabeth, a Ph.D. student in ECU’s Department of Chemistry, studied Russian language and culture as an undergraduate. She reflects on what she didn’t expect when completing a minor in Russian Studies, including how it opened up opportunities to pursue independent research through a digital humanities project.

Learn how Elizabeth’s research allowed her to travel and connect with other recipients of the Russian Studies Award across disciplines at ECU and the University of Pittsburgh.

Tysen, a rising senior double majoring in Criminal Justice and Russian Studies, reflects, “To thrive in today’s global economy and world, I need to expand my horizons and learn new cultures and languages.”

He highlights how the Russian Studies program emphasizes critical thinking—a skill he sees as central to both of his majors and one that strengthens his qualifications for careers with local, state, and federal agencies.