Students can expect a new language course for the Fall 2019 semester.
English and modern languages officials announced the department will offer Beginning Russian I next semester.
Dr. Sabina Amanbayeva, assistant professor of English, will teach.
Amanbayeva said although she has offered private lessons for years, this is her first time teaching the language as a full course in a classroom setting.
“I’m really passionate about languages in general, as well as teaching them,” Amanbayeva said. “Russian is my native tongue, but I speak many languages, and have taken many language courses, so I am very excited for this opportunity.”
Amanbayeva said the basic course will focus on grammar, vocabulary and an understanding of Russian culture.
“Many people who learn Russian as a second language tend to dwell on the grammar and rules, while those who were immersed in the culture get to explore and emphasize the cultural aspect and opportunities that come with it,” Amanbayeva said. “I think the thing that will set this course apart is that I, as a teacher, want to make sure my students can really communicate and hold a conversation in Russian, and learn not to be afraid of it.”
Amanbayeva said she intends to offer the course regularly, with Beginning Russian I and II, and Intermediate Russian I and II.
“My main worry is enrollment,” Amanbayeva said. “Russian in considered a hard language, and isn’t very popular compared to some other languages, like Spanish or French. I hope we can generate enough interest. I would love to offer even more Russian courses.”
Adrianna DelPercio, acting junior, said she believes the course will provide more variety to students interested in languages.
“I would totally be interested in it, personally,” DelPercio said. “The acting majors take a Chekhov course, so if anyone who has taken it is trying to find a way to broaden their horizons and learn more about the vocabulary used in that course, I would totally encourage them to take Russian. I think it’s a great class to offer.”
Reid Powell, political science freshman, said he believes the course will greatly benefit students.
“I think this is a wonderful addition,” Powell said. “I believe the students who will benefit the absolute most are those majoring in business with an emphasis in international relations.”
Powell said the course has the potential to open up many opportunities for students.
“Russian is a critical language,” Powell said. “There are a great amount of critical language scholarships offered through the U.S. Department of State, and those scholarships can put you in U.S. embassies where the Russian language can be utilized significantly. So, even after college, those with a background in Russian can get great offers working abroad for the government.”
Amanbayeva said she hopes the course will benefit students on both professional and personal levels.
“I want them to use the skills they learn to help them find jobs and internships, but I also hope they find friends who are Russian speakers, and immerse themselves in the culture,” Amanbayeva said. “That’s something I’m very passionate about. This language and culture is part of my identity. In our current climate Russia is sort of thought of as the enemy and is often portrayed negatively. I think it will be fascinating for the students to see different, more positive aspects of the culture.”
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