Why study Russian?
To know another language is to possess another soul.
Experience a Different Culture
Those who have been able to master a language and live in a culture different form our own have always said that it was an experience, which changes their loves forever. They lean to be more open minded about differences amongst people. They meet human beings who think about the world and understanding human relationships in terms very different from our own but just as viable. Most business opportunities are now in international corporations and these companies are always looking for people who are at ease in foreign settings. Even if you start out working at a national company, that company knows that foreign languages are a wonderful asset in dealing with their international counterparts either abroad or at home.
Vocational Opportunity
Since the new revolution is bring Russia back in the world economic system, it represents an enormous untapped market for Western goods and services. Several thousand businesses worldwide are already open in Russia. It is easy to find high-paying jobs while continuing to learn about one of the most complex and fascinating European countries. Will Russian help you more than Spanish? Well, what do you think? There are tens of millions of speakers of Spanish outside Spain vastly outnumbering Russian. Which language do you think in more in demand?
An ideal time to Learn?
Russian is the only major power that has undergone revolution in this century and it has undergone two. Russia's first resolution was the socialist resolution of 1917, which split the world community into two antagonistic blocks. In 1991 Russia threw off the remains of that revolution and undertook another, moving toward a Western European democracy and free-market economy. This second resolution, which doesn't even have a name yet, is still peacefully underway, in Russia itself, at least. Students of Russian have the opportunity of examining the effects of a nation-wide revolution whilst it is taking place. One day your grandchildren will be reading: what was it like in the '90's during the Russian Revolution?'
Whatever your reason, very few countries on the earth offer as many colourful contrasts and vocational opportunities, as Russia.
What can you do with your Russian?
Russian speakers have developed careers in a wide range variety of disciplines: education, business, government, even medicine. Some students have progress further a field but in these cases their studies have concentrated on culture history and literature as well as language. Be careful to check the full curriculum of the program. Many students choose to begin their careers with a job in Russia. The reason is compelling: in Russia you can do well while doing good. More than anything else the Russians need people who have experienced a Western free-market economy to talk to them, show them how to start up and run business. Some students are actually engaged in missionary and charity work, but most are involved in the same sort of jobs that they would have in their own country. The only difference is that they are in an exciting place at an exciting time - and, despite what we often read in the press, none have mentioned any sense of danger.
Choosing the Right School
Russian language programs are offered in most countries of the World from beginner to advanced. For the best experience most students would recommend Russia itself. If you have ever learnt a language you will know it is more enjoyable an experience if you can actually practice using the language. However, not all students can afford the living expenses or the time. If choosing a school nearer to home make sure that the school offers recognised certificates and if at all possible take a vacation to Russia after or during the course. You will find few people in Russia speak English so you will have to use your Russian. You will also find the Russian people to be very friendly and will be pleasantly surprised to hear your efforts.
If you are choosing to study Russia Moscow and St Petersburg are likely to be your first two choices. Be sure to research the areas carefully before applying to a school - they are two very different cities. You will also need to arrange your visa. Most good schools should be able to organise this for you. However, do check with your embassy as they can be bureaucracy involved. Most importantly, remember that you are in a new culture (and climate!) and so long as you respect this learning and studying in Russia will be one of the greatest life experiences you ever have!
10 Good Reasons to Study Russian
2. 9 out of 10 Russians prefer it to any other language
3. It will change your life
4. It's OK to write "R" backwards
5. It looks good on your resume
6. It goes well with vodka
7. It makes you a better human being
8. You will make new friends
9. Companies need it
10. It raises your IQ
