Alun Thomas
BA in Russian and Politics,
2009 |
I had a great time studying in the Russian department because of its friendly and relaxed atmosphere and helpful, approachable staff. Though the main focus of your time there is on establishing a good grounding in written and spoken Russian, you are also given the chance to study various aspects of Russian culture and history from various academic perspectives, and are introduced to the foundations of translation and linguistics. The modules are well structured and the teaching is of a very high standard, so I always felt like I was making progress without ever feeling overwhelmed.
Since leaving university, I have found that a degree in Russian from Sheffield is a huge asset. Russian is an interesting and unusual language to study, which makes you stand out to friends and employers alike, who appreciate the discipline and commitment that studying a language at university level demands. My proficiency in Russian, and my experiences during my year abroad, are things which came up often in job interviews, and certainly helped me find work after graduation. |
Amy Rideout
BA in Russian with Czech,
2009 |
I wouldn't swap my four years at Sheffield for anything. I believe the knowledge and experience I have gained is invaluable and, although I am not currently using my Russian and Czech skills on a daily basis, I look forward to doing so in the future. My studies at Sheffield have ignited my passion for languages and foreign cultures and I consider myself very lucky to have spent time abroad in the Czech Republic and Russia.
I had studied Russian from Year 8 at secondary school, and started Czech from scratch when I began at Sheffield. Although I had always thought of my year abroad with dread, when it came to my third year at university I felt I had the language skills to cope. Although there were times when being abroad was tough, the positives massively outweighed the negatives and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat!
The Russian department may seem small in comparison to those of other modern languages within the university, but this should be seen as a plus. Lecturers are always welcoming and ready to help, and the breadth of module topics would be the envy of any university. I feel I've gained a well-rounded education based on the history, literature, art and language of the Czechs and Russians, and the enthusiasm for these topics will continue for the rest of my life. |
Gareth Cadman
BA in French and Russian,
2007 |
I had the great opportunity of spending four years in the Department of Russian and Slavonic Studies at Sheffied. Just like everyone else in my cohort, I loved it from day one. We were all looked after in every manner possible, from fantastic teaching in the language and Russian history, culture and
linguistics, to the care shown to us by the most supportive of staff. Not to forget the particularly active social side of the Department, run by the students - VodSoc (yes, the Vod stands for vodka!). Moreover, the time I spent in Russia has given me priceless memories.
The best bit of all: I am delighted to say that I am now in my third year of secondary school teaching and helping more young people share the fun of learning this beautiful language. |
Catrina Morley
BA in Modern Languages (Russian,Spanish, Czech),
2007
|
The Department allowed me to further my interest in languages and different cultures, to the extent that in my second year I opted to take Czech and was able to study at a summer school in the Czech Republic. The tutors and
lecturers are excellent and patient. There is a variety of interesting modules - from linguistics to cinema. The Russian Department itself is like a small family, where all students help each other out. My degree in Modern Languages led me to teach English abroad, and more recently to the Merchant Navy - where I work alongside Russian and Croatian officers. Being able to speak Russian is a great advantage, both on a working level and socially. Understanding a language doesn't just mean understanding words - but rather people, stories, lives and histories!
|
Will Scott-Gall
BA in Russian and History, 2004
Post-A-Level Russian
from Hungerford, Berkshire (Marlborough College) |
The teaching was of a very high standard, and small class sizes were of a real benefit in non-core modules.
There was an excellent atmosphere in the department. I blame the friendly staff, and the decent social scene that allowed everyone to meet everyone else. Especially guilty is the head of department, who knew all the students and made himself available to us in spite of his workload.
Czech specific comments would be the same if you asked any of us: the teaching was excellent, and small class size provided excellent student-teacher ratio.
The Czech play was the best thing I did at university.
The year abroad in Prague was the most enjoyable time at uni. Interaction with the language, culture and people is essential. The programme at Charles University was ideal for this.
The Czech circle is a brilliant way to meet and socialise with Czechs and Slovaks. The Xmas dinner was so much fun!
The scholarship I got at the end of first year [to attend summer school in Prague] was also important as it really sparked my interest.
Having teachers like Ana Adamovicova come [from Prague to teach us as part of the Erasmus exchange] was also useful and improved the quality of the modules.
And I guess I am just grateful that the Department let me change my course to incorporate Czech. It's nice that the department cares about its undergraduates, yet still maintains the best research level in the country.
[Immediate destination: Teaching English in Japan - JET scheme] |
Chris Donald
Russian and History, 2004
Post A-Level Russian
From Bristol (Bristol Grammar School) |
When I started university, I was rather intimidated by the idea of moving away from home and not knowing anybody else. Although I knew that Sheffield, and more specifically, its Russian department had a good academic pedigree I was still nervous.
Such doubts were soon extinguished. The teaching is extremely good - the lessons are challenging and relations between staff and student remain relaxed, friendly, and informal.
The tutorial options are excellent. Tutors make a point of making themselves available, so don't be afraid to ask what seem like silly questions. It is good to hear a reassuring voice from an experienced academic.
The facilities for self-teaching are also very good - the Modern Languages Teaching Centre is equipped with satellite TV and a huge array of videos.
Sheffield itself is a very friendly town. I am told it has very good shopping; personally, I can recommend the nightclubs and pubs. I would advise any applicant thinking about coming to Sheffield to study Russian to do it. Sheffield's Russian Department's reputation is well deserved and the city is a treasure.
I also enjoy telling my friend from [prestigious southern university] that his degree is rubbish because he is only studying the language at the second-best department in the country.
[Immediate destination: Sheffield] |
Tara Becker
BA, Russian with Czech, 2004
Beginners' Russian
From Dartford (Dartford Grammar School for Girls) |
I decided to do both languages from scratch after having gone on a Czech exchange trip with my sixth-form. The department was incredibly supportive of all of us, with approachable lecturers who both were experts in their fields and wonderful pedagogues. On top of the intensive language tutoring, we also were able to take courses in Russian and Soviet culture, history and thought. I particularly enjoyed the atmosphere of these courses, taught in small groups. Courses in cinema, modern and classic literature were particularly useful in my year abroad, as they provided many a long discussion with Russian and Czech speakers.
My year abroad was the highlight of my degree. I spent five months at the famous Charles University in Prague, followed by a six-month placement in a Jewish community centre in Minsk, Belarus. These were incredibly diverse experiences and I came home with a much better understanding of not only the languages of these places, but also of their cultures, picking up some wonderful friends along the way.
Having finished my degree, I feel that I have not only gained a sound understanding of the languages, but also gained skills and confidence in the process, through departmental talks, discussions and even a Czech play! The course is rare in that it provided four full years of intellectual stimulation in a warm, supportive and thorough atmosphere. I would not exchange those years for anything!
[Immediate destination: Youth organiser for a synagogue in Manchester]
|
Jon Lillie
BA Russian Studies, 2004
Russian post A-level
From Torquay, Devon (Torquay Boys' Grammar School) |
After completing my A-levels I knew that I wanted to study Russian further, as this would in reality be my only chance of mastering the language. I was in some doubt as to whether to go into higher education, as the thought of loans was not pleasant, but a degree course offered me the opportunity to concentrate on study without worries of work at the same time, and would also allow me to go to Russia without having to make all the arrangements myself.
I already had an interest in Russian history and culture, and was keen to try other Slavonic languages (two years of Polish, one year of Czech).
Additionally, I took advantage of the flexibility of my degree programme to study modules outside of the department (linguistics modules in the dept of English language and linguistics) that proved a very useful foundation for the history of the Slavonic languages modules in second year, modules that seemed to tie the different subjects I was doing together.
I also particularly enjoyed the Soviet foreign policy module, and the option of doing an independent project module.
The year abroad was for me, like for many others, the time when much of the Russian clicked, and from dreading oral exams I started to almost enjoy them. I took use of the opportunity to get involved in Russian church and youth group, and hobby club, which, as well as supplementing my interests, helped my Russian no end.
The members of staff are all experts in their fields and enjoy good relations with their students; the Russian department in general is very friendly and inclusive. The departmental society is a good source of activity while the personal tutorial system works well at providing support for students.
I settled into Sheffield fine, finding a local church (Wycliffe on Hickmott Road) and gym (that unfortunately closed down), and ultimately a wife and home. Ultimately, if you want to study Russian - then this is the best place for it, unless you are capable and disciplined enough to save money, and travel and study in Russia yourself.
[Immediate destination: Office support staff, South Yorkshire Police] |
Gillian McCarthy
B.A., German & Russian, 2000
Beginners' Russian
From Liverpool (Rainhill High School) |
After graduating, I began looking for a temporary job, as I intend to go travelling in Spring 2001. I found that there was quite a lot of demand for people fluent in languages. Inevitably I came across more positions involving German than Russian, and my current job at US Airways involves German. I am a Bilingual Reservations Representative.
Had I more time, I'm sure I could have found a job requiring my skills in Russian, but due to the fact that I want to go travelling for 4 months, I needed to begin saving ASAP.
The journey I am planning will take me to St. Petersburg and Moscow, then on the Trans-Siberian to Lake Baikal, down through Mongolia to Beijing and Hong Kong. From there I will fly to San Francisco and travel around America.
My language skills will be an essential part of the trip, which will involve staying with families. I know it'll be the trip of a lifetime.
When I return, in the autumn, I intend to begin a graduate job in Management, which I am currently trying to arrange.
I very much enjoyed my course at Sheffield. I think Sheffield University is an excellent institution and I would, and indeed do, recommend it to anyone. The Russian Department in particular I found to be welcoming and friendly.
As a town I liked Sheffield very much. The University is in a great location, the people are friendly and it's not too big, i.e. it is a city that one can settle into comfortably. |
Justin McNeillie
Russian, French and Czech BAML, 2004
post-A-level Russian
From Colwyn Bay, Wales (Eirias High School) |
Russian is a very rewarding language to study, not only because it is the language of a fascinating people and culture and also the language of many of the former Soviet Republics as well as Russian speaking communities scattered all over the world.
Through having a knowledge of Russian, the acquisition of other Slavonic languages such as Czech or Polish is much more accessible. There is a great abundance of French/German speakers which contributes to Russian being more of an asset on the job market; having learnt a 'hard' language to degree level can lead to many interesting opportunities and also possibilities in training in another language.
Sheffield is a great place to study, it is a down to earth, up-and-coming, friendly northern city with lots to offer to any student. Sheffield students come from a wide array of backgrounds.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent in Russia both studying and also working as an English tutor, to such an extent that I did not want to leave. The year abroad is a fantastic opportunity to experience the real Russia, greatly improve your Russian, and motivate your interests in it.
Above all during my course in Sheffield I especially enjoyed learning Czech, which despite its complexities, has been a very rewarding language to learn, due to the tight links the department has with the country and the Czech social scene it maintains in Sheffield, as well as the practical nature of the course.
[Immediate destination: Teaching English in Ufa and Moscow, Russia] |
Marion Gallimore
BA in Russian & Business Studies, 2000
Beginners' Russian
From Lausanne, Switzerland (Gymnase Cantonal - Swiss Baccalaureat) |
My four years as a student at Sheffield were certainly the best in my life, and I will miss the atmosphere both of the university and of the city itself.
The most rewarding part of my studies was my year abroad, as I not only discovered the ways of life of a country, but I met some amazing people and saw some fascinating sites. My year abroad has given me some of my best memories, and when I look back on those few months, I actually feel something very close to homesickness!
After my graduation I applied for many jobs, and many employers wanted to meet me. I have made the decision, however, to put off looking for work, have settled for a temporary assignment, and am waiting for a reply on an application I made for an internship with the European Commission in Brussels. If this works out, I hope to be working with people projects related to Russia.
If this does not work out, I will apply for more jobs at home. I am confident that my degree in Russian and Business Studies will open many doors to me, as I have already seen from the enthusiastic responses I received in my previous applications. |
Sue Whiteman
BA in Russian and Linguistics, 2004
Beginners’ Russian
From Hinckley, Leicestershire (King Henry VIII School, Coventry) |
At Sheffield, I studied Russian and Linguistics, both of which were completely new to me when I started university. I found Russian very challenging to start with but, with the support of the staff, I soon got to grips with it. Such was the pace of the course and the quality of the teaching that, by the end of my degree, I didn’t feel at any disadvantage having started Russian from scratch. I also found that my two subjects complemented each other very well – this was helped by the wide choice of modules available in the Russian Department. I was able to focus on aspects of Russian language rather than literature.
I was apprehensive about going on the Year Abroad but it turned out to be a fantastic year. I studied in Voronezh for one semester, followed by St Petersburg for the second semester. In fact, I enjoyed myself so much that I went back to Voronezh for the summer to teach English there. Before I went to Russia, my spoken Russian was not my strength but after 10 months there and a lot of hard work, I had made a lot of progress. I also made some great friends whilst I was there and have been back several times since to both cities. My year abroad definitely sparked a love affair with Russia, which meant that I went back after I graduated.
I would definitely recommend coming to Sheffield to study Russian. The Department is second to none and Sheffield is a great city to live in. Outside of my studies I was an active member of the university’s Sub Aqua club, which meant that I qualified as a diver (having also started from scratch), met lots of interesting people and had the opportunity to visit some great places.
After graduating, I spent last year living and working in Sochi, Russia, as a British Council language assistant at the Russian University of Peoples’ Friendship. This post enabled me to experience Russia from a different perspective, living in the very south of the country. It also helped me to further reinforce the language skills that I developed whilst at university. Now I’m back in the UK and going to Manchester University to do an MA in Translation Studies, drawing on the knowledge and experience I gained both during my time in Sheffield and in Russia. After my MA, I shall be looking for a job that will fully utilise my Russian! |
Sarah Roberts
BA in Russian and History, 2004
Beginners' Russian
from Wells, Somerset (Strode College) |
I was quite apprehensive about studying Russian from scratch at first; however, I found the teaching and support available at Sheffield to be really excellent. The department is small and friendly, and the tutors are always willing to help or advise you.
The personal tutorial system is particularly good and provided me with support in all areas of my university experience and not just those related to the department. By the end of the course I really felt confident about my language skills and could see no discernable difference between those who had started from scratch and those that had A-Level Russian.
For me the best part of the course was the year abroad. I chose not to follow the usual route instead setting up my own work placement with a voluntary organisation. The department were really supportive of this, offering me lots of guidance on where to go and supporting my application throughout.
My experience of living and working in Russia really helped me decide what to do as a career after university. For the moment I'm staying in Sheffield and working as an Inclusion Co-ordinator for a local charity. I keep up my Russian through my involvement with the Russian Cultural Centre in Sheffield centre and, although I'm not using my language skills professionally right now, I feel that having a second language says a lot about your personal and professional skills.
Employers look for things that make you stand out from the crowd and being able to speak Russian really sparks an interest amongst people.
[Immediate destination: Inclusion co-ordinator, non-profit organisation in Sheffield] |
Rob Wontner-Smith
BA in Russian & Economics, 2000
Post-A-Level Russian
From Bradford (Bradford Grammar School) |
Since finishing the course in June 2000, I returned to Russia for a month to travel with Russian friends made during the year abroad. I am now working in Sheffield for a firm of accountants training for ACA qualification. The fact that I and many friends decided to stay in Sheffield shows that as a town it is a great place to live, study and work with plenty and varied things to do and lots of opportunities to get involved. Some of us took the opportunity to help out at international sports events as language practice.
The course itself was quite free in terms of choice, especially in the final years, and the range of modules offered had something for everyone. The Russian Department in terms of staff and students is definitely one of the friendliest departments, and the atmosphere this generated brought the best out of the students. The year abroad experience, whilst challenging at first, is without doubt a chance of a lifetime. I made many friends and contacts, Russian and English, with whom I intend to stay in contact. My only advice to anyone on a year abroad would be to get involved as much as possible and enjoy it. It also provided an amazing opportunity for travel to different areas of Russia.
My final thought would be that while the university experience and particularly the year abroad have been the best years of my life (so far) and so if I never spoke Russian again it would still have been worthwhile. Russia has got to be a favourite to be one of the economic development stories of the next decades and as such the prospects for the future look promising for the limited number of Russian speakers. |
| |
|
|
