Minor in Russian

Haley Waddell

What inspired you to choose your major and/or minor?

I decided to minor in Russian because I’ve always been fascinated by the language and culture. The first time I heard Russian, I thought it sounded so beautiful and unique, and I knew I wanted to learn it. I’m also really interested in exploring Russian history and literature to better understand the country and its people. Since I want to become a diplomat, I think knowing multiple languages, like Russian and French, will be a huge advantage for building connections and communicating with people from different backgrounds.

How did your academic experiences in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages impact you?

My experiences in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages have been incredibly rewarding. The Russian classes I’ve taken, from composition and writing to literature, have really deepened my understanding of the language and culture. The variety of courses has challenged me to grow as a language learner and helped me develop stronger communication and analytical skills. The support from my professors and peers has been amazing, and it’s given me the confidence to use Russian in both academic and real-world settings. These experiences have not only strengthened my language skills but also prepared me for my future goals.

What accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud of?

One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of during my time at Mason was receiving the Modern and Classical Languages Excellence in Advanced Russian Award in 2023. In 2024, I was honored to earn an honorable mention for my capstone project, Turkey's Balancing Act: Navigating NATO Obligations and Strategic Relations with Russia. Studying Global Affairs and Russian has provided me with the knowledge and skills to pursue incredible opportunities. During the summer of 2024, I interned at Hand in Hand International, a nonprofit in London that empowers women in countries like Afghanistan, Tanzania, and Kenya. This semester, I’ve been interning at the Department of Defense, where I’ve gained valuable experience and insight into government operations. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding and have allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world challenges.

Are there any faculty or staff members who made a difference at Mason?

Professor Guglielmi has had a huge impact on my Russian studies at Mason. Whenever learning Russian felt especially challenging, she always encouraged me to push through and never let me feel discouraged. Her supportive approach and genuine passion for teaching made her classes both engaging and inspiring. Thanks to her, I’ve been able to stay motivated and never lost my love for learning the language. Her guidance has made a lasting difference in my academic journey.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

After graduation, I want to start a career in diplomacy. I’m excited to use my language skills, such as Russian and French, in real-life situations to connect with people and build relationships across cultures. I hope to work in international relations and on global issues like security, development, and cultural exchange. In the long run, I’d love to become a diplomat and take on roles where I can negotiate, solve problems, and help shape policies. My ultimate goal is to make a difference by fostering understanding and cooperation between countries, using everything I’ve learned at George Mason and through my internships.

What does learning a new language and culture mean to you?

To me, learning a new language and culture is incredibly important. It’s not just about being able to communicate in a different language—it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of the world and the people in it. It helps you see things from new perspectives, appreciate different traditions, and break down barriers between yourself and others.

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time and/or what campus activities do you enjoy engaging in at Mason?

My favorite thing to do in my free time is play tennis. I’ve loved the sport for years, and it’s a great way for me to stay active, clear my mind, and have fun. During my freshman and sophomore years at Mason, I was part of the tennis club team, which was an amazing experience.