A Warm Russian Welcome

Добро пожаловать! (Welcome!)

Our students arrived on an unusually hot and sunny June day. A typical June in Moscow brings temperatures between 55-70 degrees Fahrenheit. On this day, the high was 88 degrees! Which is not what our students expected from “Mother Russia” ;) We like to joke that their home climates and happy energy followed them to Russia and settled around as they did!

The “warm” welcome did not end there. We settled into our new home in Odintsovo and were ushered by equally excited students, teachers, and staff into our first cultural introduction to Russia: “Kalinka”, a famous, traditional dance.

The next day, we had a chance to meet the Director of Gorchakov Lyceum, the high school connected to the Moscow State Institute of International Affairs (MGIMO). The Lyceum prepares students for entry into the university program and eventually careers in international affairs. Lyceum students graciously  received us with a presentation and dance performance! The students then participated in some fun ‘ice breaker’ interviews and poster making, where they exchanged interests and motifs they associate with and use to represent their country. This provided a great basic understanding of individuals, as well as each country, and the beginning of rewarding relationships for students to build upon as they learn about and practice diplomacy together.

We then went on tour of the city of Odintsovo. That afternoon, we learned about its’ history and legends, significant landmarks, and public places for holidays and celebrations. The heat didn’t leave us a choice but to buy some ice cream after! :) 

Our first days in Russia were joyful, full, and warm (in more ways than one!) Stay tuned to read more about our daily life on campus, tours of Moscow and political topics we discuss.

Пока-пока! (Bye-bye!)

-Anna and Rachel