Minor in Russian

Bethany Bethany

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

Choosing my minor was actually an act of serendipity that started several years ago, while I was involved in theatre. I spent quite some time reading through major plays and studying famous playwrights. One of my favorites, “The Cherry Orchard” by Anton Chekhov, sparked an interest in Russian art and theatre. I read through Chekhov, and Tolstoy. Before I knew it I was enamored, and fascinated with the Russian language. I wanted to read these plays in the original texts. When I came to George Mason, I was looking through the minors that were offered and found Russian. I haven’t looked back since.

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

One of the most unexpected differences in my life, after studying in the Department of Modern and Classical Languages, is how confident I feel about traveling. Like so many, I have aspirations of seeing the world and letting myself become immersed in other cultures. However, the world is a great big place, and it’s not always as easy as one sees on Instagram. It can be intimidating. Since starting with the department, I’m much more eager to put my language skills to use- however poorly I feel I may be speaking. I’ve learned not only about the languages themselves, but about how to pick up more, especially outside of the classroom. I’ve traveled and used my (sometimes very limited) language skills in situations I never would have been comfortable with before. Ultimately, my academic experiences have not stayed strictly academic, but they have positively affected my personal life as well.

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

My accomplishments that I’m most proud of are more abstract than they are physical successes; like gaining confidence both personally, and in using my skills. I’m also proud of continuing what will most likely be a lifelong journey of learning. Learning new things can be discouraging sometimes- especially when you find yourself comparing your new language skills to native speakers- but continuing is something to be proud of. I am not fluent in Russian yet, but I am doing so much better than I would have believed when I first started.

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

Helen Guglielmi has made a huge difference for me. She was my first professor of Russian language at George Mason. I had tried learning several times before and it just never clicked. She has helped me to continue studying the language and appreciate the culture. More importantly, she truly cares about her students and is incredibly supportive. I know that if I ever need a little extra help or care, she will be there.

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

Following graduation, I’d like to become a translator. I want to be in a position that I am able to use different languages every day. At some point I’d love to work with an NGO, specifically with refugees or widows of conflicts. I’d also really like to learn a few more languages and be able to call myself a polyglot; though that may take some time.

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

One thing about me is I love to chat with people. When you learn a new language, and interact with the culture and media in that language, you open up a whole new world to yourself. Being able to relate to people and talk in their own language widens your social circle, and can give you even aspects of your own life to enjoy. There is nothing better than finding a new favorite song or hearing a joke in a different language that you never would have been able to appreciate before.

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

I love to support the arts on campus! There are frequently performances from performing arts departments which are free or cheaper for students. It’s a great way to get involved on campus, and to unwind after the stress of classes. We have a lot of great artists and performers on campus with us, and you never know what you might find out that you enjoy.