What’s It Like?

Marcella ’21 World Languages & Literatures Major (Spanish and Russian

Before coming to college, I did not plan to study Russian. But driven by a sense of adventure and also a fascination for a country and a culture that is often negatively portrayed by the Western media, I decided to give the Russian language a try. While Russian is difficult and different from other languages I have been exposed to, I really enjoyed the process of learning and being introduced to this new and challenging language. Studying abroad in Saint Petersburg was one of the most enriching opportunities of my undergraduate experience. Sadly, my time in Russia was cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic. While the Russian language and its complexities still pose a challenge, I anticipate going back to Russia to keep learning this beautiful language and to continue to immerse myself in the unique Russian culture

The opportunity to study anthropology, gender studies, and, of course, Russian at LC has opened doors that I never could have imagined. Studying abroad in St. Petersburg in the spring of 2020 gave me a taste for life in Russia that I first experienced growing up in a Russian-American household. In my last year at LC, I continued my involvement with the Russian club as its president, finding new and creative ways to virtually foster community among students studying Russian. I’m super passionate about all things Russia: its language, politics, and especially the food! The support of the Russian department at LC has allowed me to channel my long-felt interest in Russian culture into my current academic pursuit of contemporary queer identity and nationalism in Russia. Looking forward, I hope to return to Russia to continue my research, but regardless of what my future holds, I know that it will always include Russia in some form.