My decision to come to Russia and study at EUSP was made to serve as a launching point down a completely different career path than my undergraduate degree had prepared me for. Initially, I was concerned about feeling out of place or in over my head. However, those concerns were never realized, and the entire EUSP staff and faculty made sure incoming students from all backgrounds felt right at home in the classroom as well as in the city.
This past year in Russia has been an incredibly formative experience for me, both from an educational and personal standpoint. The cultural immersion and IMARES curriculum have added an extra layer to my perspective regarding Russia that is advantageous in pursuing future professional endeavors. As I encounter new chapters in life, I will always be thankful for the education I received and the experiences I shared with many wonderful people in charming Petersburg.