Wrapping Up
People
By Ron Westover

Four months ago, nine Americans embarked on a journey that many will never have the chance to experience again. Before setting out, the only word everyone would speak, was why? This is why. The past four months have changed the way these young adults see themselves and the rest of the world. They have grown into better leaders and people. Throughout the trip, the trail was riddled with hurdles to overcome. On the other side of each hurdle came knowledge and memories. They have made friends that will be kept throughout a lifetime. The memories made will make stories that will be told throughout generations.

This newsletter will not be our last, but our time is running short. We believed that this was an acceptable time to tell about our experiences and share a few things we have learned. What follows is a brief statement made by each student after they were asked a question pertaining to this trip.

Has your opinion of America changed since you have been here in Russia? If so, How?

Maria Warnick
Montana State-Agricultural Operation Technology
" I've never had a bad opinion of America but after being in Russia for this amount of time I have learned to appreciate some of the conveniences of America, such as being able to get a decent job. Many Russian students are extremely uncertain of what they will be doing in the future. When we ask them what kind of job they want in the future, all they say is one that pays well. I think it is much easier to get a decent paying job in America."

Kristin Esbensen
Penn State- Agriculture and Extension Education

"My opinion of America hasn't changed as much as my opinion of foreigners has. Being a foreigner here in Russia has made me appreciate those who are not American. I do, however have a better understanding of American culture and realize the many things Americans take for granted. Overall this experience has influenced my view on people in general. Whether Russian or American, we are all human and have the same wants and needs and can appreciate a friendly smile."

What have you learned from this experience?

Abby Hird
University of Nebraska- Horticulture

" It's been a learning experience to see a different point of view towards America. I have only talked with Americans about America before, and so hearing the Russian side of things really opens my eyes. It was also interesting to be here in Moscow during the 2002 Winter Olympics as all the controversy went on."

Jen O' Boyle
Penn State- Animal Biotechnology

" I have developed a greater respect for foreigners in the U.S.A., because I have learned first hand how hard it is to have no one understand you, and not be able to understand anyone else. I have learned that I do not like energy engineering (no offense, Dr. Buffington). And finally, I have learned that when I order salad in Russia, I should not expect to get lettuce."

Matt Rudd
University of Nebraska- Agricultural Education
" I have learned that while there are fundamental differences in our systems of education, Russian and American students are still similar in many ways. Both do well in classes that interest them and we all look for better or easier solutions to our class work. I think both groups have enjoyed discovering similarities and differences in each other's lives."

How have you grown from this experience?

Josh Brown
University of Florida- Agricultural Communications
"Studying abroad has definitely opened my eyes to how much we as U.S. citizens should value America. I feel that I have learned a lot, not only about Russia and agriculture, but more importantly about myself. This experience has also reinforced my vision of the future regarding a career in the international business sector. I hope to take these experiences and share with others the importance of agriculture and international relations."

What is your most memorable experience been so far?

Chris Rodgers
Texas A&M- Agricultural Development

" I would have to say the most memorable experience I have had so far was after we went to the extension agency at Sergie Pasod. After the agency we traveled to a small farm outside the town. This is where our bus, nicknamed the Gray Ghost, got stuck in the snow. All of the students got out of the bus and helped push. This also was the scene of a very good snowball fight. It made for a great time."

Ron Westover
University of Florida- Animal Science
" I have made many memorable experiences while being here. From business lunch at Red Lobster to playing hearts till 3am. Hearing Jane say, ' Was hearts broken?' to listening to the latest dance hits at Voodoo Lounge. I must say though, my most memorable moment was when we went to see Swan Lake at the Kremlin Theatre. Before the show we sat down in the restaurant to have drinks and a quick snack. While sitting there I realized I was sitting in the Kremlin drinking a Pepsi. For a moment I almost could not believe it. How privileged I am to be able to even take part in an experience like this."

Jessica Daehnke
University of Nebraska- Horticulture

" I suppose my most memorable experience would be making dinner for the children at the orphanage we visited. The home is run by missionaries and the children range in age from 9-18. There are around 20 children currently living there. Chris, Abby, and I spent a day and a half making lasagna, soup and apple pies to feed everyone. There was so much food that we all ate until we were sick. There was even a pan of lasagna and a pie left over."

Spring Has Arrived!!
Weather
By Josh Brown

As a child, I learned the popular phrase "April Showers bring May Flowers." Throughout our time here in Moscow we have not seen very much rain. However, over the past few weeks, more and more flower blossoms are appearing. The trees are beginning to gain their natural green color and spring is finally approaching. The past week has provided us with relatively warm weather, averaging in the mid 50's Fahrenheit.

The excellent weather is being enjoyed by all of us. Since the warmer temperatures arrived, our group has begun to plan country trips and spend more time outside enjoying the warmth. Kristin has also talked others into joining her at the track for some laps. Since this past winter was described as a very warm and unusual winter, many Russian students and teachers feel that unexpected temperatures could occur throughout the spring season. Jane Rybinskaya, a Russian student, informed us that cold weather is forecasted for the near future. The UF guys are hoping the weather will stay nice and warm to prepare us for the Florida sunshine that we will be greeted by in May. As our time in Moscow passes by, many of us are checking the weather to find out what home will be like upon our return. For most, the temperatures should be nice, alluding to the possibility of excellent beach weather.

Kristin, Maria, Jenn & Josh stretch before their daily run at the local track

Students of American and Russian Culture
Culture
By Maria Warnick

By taking our American courses here in Russia we have not only learned the course work, but we have been given the opportunity to learn about a different culture. Currently, we are taking a course on Critical Thinking and Decision Making, taught by Dr. Rick Rudd from the University of Florida. In class we are working on applying our critical thinking skills and the ability to ask questions that will help us discover the information we want to know. In class on April 15, 2002, we brainstormed questions that we have about each other's cultures. The results of the discussion were very interesting. When reading this information, please remember that it is only opinions of the students and how we view each other's culture.

The Russian students were curious about the American family structure, job opportunities, school systems, and the realities of mafia affairs in the United States. The American students were curious about these same topics, but also wanted to know about the differences that the Russian students see between socialism and the new democratic system of Russia, as it is an issue that American students have never had to deal with.

Listening to the Russian students, it is apparent that it is common for extended families to live together. Some of the Russian students have three generations of family members all living under the same roof. It is my understanding, that when a young Russian couple gets married, they often move in with one of their parents. For the American students, we found that we all have different family structures. Some of our families are very close and live within a small radius of each other, whereas other families are located throughout the nation and do not have strong ties to one another.

One question the Russian students were very interested in was the current job opportunities for college students in the United States. We explained that if we wanted a job, we could usually find one. It may not be the best paying job, but there are jobs that can be obtained by students. One Russian student explained how she applied to work for an international fast food restaurant here in Moscow, but was turned down because she is a student and can only work during the summer months. Some Russian students have been able to find summer work but it is hard for them when companies do not want to hire part time employees and require many experience.

As students, it was interesting to compare some practices of our school systems. For the most part, it seems as though the Russian system is much like our own. However we did not discuss the different curriculum. Russian students start their schooling when they are 6-7 years of age. Rather then having kindergarten through twelfth grade, Russia has a system of eleven grades. After completing the schooling, students can attend a 4-6 year university. Some students go to a technical school after their ninth year of classes for 2-4 years, and then have the option to attend a university. All of the state schools are free for students. However, if they have a failing grade or take extended classes, such as foreign languages, they must pay an extra fee.

When we see a BMW or a Mercedes car on the road we start to joke around and say that those people are members of the Russian Mafia. Well, whether it is a joke or not, it was a question that arose during our class discussion. From what little the American students know about mafia in the United States, we came to the conclusion that it probably does exist to a certain extent in our country. The Russian students seemed to be taken back when we told them that we feel that, few to none of our government officials, are members of mafia.

There were dramatic changes for the Russian people in the early 1990's when the new democratic system replaced the previous socialistic system. Russia is still in a transition period between these two forms of government. When asked which form of government was better, there were no similar responses from the Russian students. From the socialist times, students remember standing in bread lines with their parents and grandparents just to get a little food. They now appreciate the availability of food, as well as many modern conveniences. Currently, the class system of the Russian society seems to be that of the rich and the poor, whereas during Socialism, people had similar social status. The Russian students also spoke about the job availability during socialism. During this time, after students completed their education, the government would be able to find a job for them. With the current system, students are unsure as to what they will do upon graduation.

To be able to see and experience another culture is one of the main reasons that many of the American students decided to participate in this program. Learning how other countries operate and how everyday people live, is what it is all about. By having this knowledge we can better understand our own culture and learn from each other.

Roman, Jenn, Kristin & Ksenia practice their critical thinking skills in Dr. Rudd's class

So Much To Do, So Little Time
Activities
By Chris Rodgers

As we embark on our last month here in Moscow, the smell of spring is in the air. We have done so many things; time seems to have flown by. With so many places to go and things to do, we've hardly had a moment's rest.

From March 31st to April 6th we had a few special guests: Tom and Christy Hird (Abby's parents) and Tim James (Abby's boyfriend) came to celebrate Abby's birthday, on April 4th. They traveled with us throughout the week. Dr. Rick Rudd, from the University of Florida, arrived the same week.

On Thursday, April 4th several students, Dr. Rudd, and the Hird's took a guided tour around the Kremlin Armory. The Armory is where many of the national treasures are kept. Our guide, Marina, took us through rooms filled with ancient armor, clothing, and gifts presented to the czars over the years. We saw a room full of carriages, including a winter sled belonging to Catherine the Great, which was set on sleigh-runners and pulled by 23 horses. There were also examples of thrones used by the czars, along with many of the old crowns used for coronation ceremonies. When asked about the exhibits Abby Hird, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said, "It was a very wealthy and extremely fun experience, I would suggest it for anyone". That same evening, several students also went to the Moscow Orchestra's presentation of Schubert's Symphony No. 9 and Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 6. The concert was held at the Moscow Conservatory.

On Saturday, April 13th the group went to the Moscow Dolphinarium. There, we saw performances with a Beluga whale, two Black Sea dolphins, a Harbor seal, and a sea lion. It was like a small Sea World set down in the center of Moscow. It was interesting for the Russian students who went with us. Some of them had never seen dolphins up close. They were also very interested in Dr. Rudd's stories of fishing in Florida with dolphins swimming around the boat.

The next Friday, on a warm sunny day, a number of people went to the Moscow Zoo. The zoo cost only 5 rubles for admission, but the experiences was worth much more. Inside we found many of the same animals you would find back home. A really interesting and weird exhibit, was cats and rats in the same house. It was really different and amazed us all. The zoo had two main sections. In order to get to each, you had to walk across a bridge that hung over the road. So the zoo was on two sides of the streets. Of course we enjoyed cotton candy and ice cream cones while at the zoo.

Maria, Kristin and Yulia enjoy eating a favorite treat among visitors at the Moscow Zoo

On the following Sunday, most of us traveled to Ismylovski Park to wrap up our gift shopping. Ismylovski Park is basically the tourist capitol of Moscow. It's a large park set back from the road and is made up of rows upon rows of vendors selling everything from Russian dolls and matrioshkas to old Soviet coins and memorabilia, fur hats, amber and garnet jewelry, as well as traditional Russian clothing, quilts, and pillows. The park is only open on weekends and has become a regular Sunday event for many of us. We go there not only to buy our gifts for friends and family (and a little something for ourselves) but also for the atmosphere it provides, the fun of bargaining with vendors, and for some, the familiar sound of the English language.

Along with all of this excitement, we have been planning excursions outside of Moscow, to visit the homes of some of the Russian students who live in the surrounding countryside. Now that the warm weather has arrived, some of us are beginning to experience a touch of spring fever. Walks outside and around Moscow are becoming a more interesting way of passing the time, learning the culture, and experiencing Russia. Some students have visited Red Square and Arbat Street at night, and really enjoyed it. Even though our time here is growing short, it seems that we are busier than ever. We have so much to do and see, and so little time left.

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