June 12, 2008: Emphasizing an immersion not only into language but into culture, USC's Russian Department has successfully launched and completed this study abroad program twice. Despite the program's relatively small size (between 11 and 14 students with one USC professor), the Russian Department has recruited some of the best and brightest students. Though each of these students shares a common interest in studying Russian language, literature, and culture, they represent a variety of academic disciplines at USC (for example: English literature, mathematics, international relations, business, linguistics, dance, and economics).
The first three days of the program are spent exploring the cultural and historical centers of Moscow before students arrive in Taganrog and are met by the staff of the Taganrog Technical Institute of the Southern Federal University. For the American students, TTI finds local Russian host families who are genuinely interested in sharing their home, culture, and language. During the five-week stay, students have an intense academic schedule at TTI.
For the past two years Dr. Maia Solovieva from USC has taught a language and literature course on the works of
Anton Chekhov. At the same time, students gain first-hand experience in a Russian academic environment from Russian language instructors at TTI. In 2008, the language courses have been divided into two levels of difficulties: "Communicating in Russian" with Dr. Nechepurenko, and "Communicative Strategies in Russian" with Dr. Narushevin. Weekends are reserved for free time and excursions around the city and region; in the past, destinations have included historical locations in Taganrog, Starocherkassk, and Novocherkassk. Even though students have a busy schedule, everyone has the opportunity to explore Taganrog and encounter new people and culture.
The proven results of the joint USC-TTI program are an increased level of practical language skills, increased awareness of and appreciation for Russian culture, and an increased preparedness for studying or working in Russia. Already three students
from the first program in 2007 have returned to Russia in order to study or work, and the number is expected to grow. Though intense and relatively brief, this study abroad program has shown itself to be effective and beneficial for every person involved.
