June 26, 2012
When considering what was the most valuable experience gained while studying abroad at the European University at St. Petersburg, IMARES, it is difficult to narrow and award one particular aspect of an entire year to having been the best, the most interesting, the most insightful or the most rewarding. Rather, the sum of the total experience decorates an individual with the benefits of academia in real time and space and awards you with invaluable life-lessons.
A foreigner in Russia boasts wide eyes filled with curiosity and skepticism. The International Masters in Russian and Eurasian program contributes to a greater understanding of Russia’s political history and contemporary flavor. The professors and course work award a monopoly in understanding the broader picture of Russia and Eurasia while leaving a major imprint of detail and depth. Outside of the classroom and far from the university, if equipped with an adventurous spirit and a healthy dose of humility, St Petersburg and beyond will honor you with incredible illustrations, tastes, melodies and if you are lucky, the acquaintance of a “Russian soul” who is just as curious and willing to talk to you as you are eager to talk to them.