Russia and East European Studies
Major (no minor)
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
The benefit of Union’s small classes and close student relationships with faculty cannot be overstated. In both my Russian studies and political science majors, faculty are consistently available to give feedback, with student improvement always as the final goal. The ability to create personal relationships with experts is a unique advantage of the Union experience."
-Harrison Berger '23
The Russia and East European Studies Program provides a broad education focusing on the languages, cultures, literature and politics of this vast and vastly important region. It draws from a number of disciplines, including history, modern languages, political science and economics.
You'll learn in small classes with engaging faculty from a variety of departments and programs as you examine this ever-changing area from multiple perspectives. You will also have opportunities for immersing yourself in the Russian language and culture on terms abroad.
Contact: Kristin Bidoshi, Program Director
reesdir@union.edu
(518) 388-7105
Courses
Courses cover an array of fascinating topics about the history, people and political dynamics of the region. For instance, you may survey Russian literature from Pushkin to the revolution, study Russia in the Imperial Age, or learn about the rise and fall of the Soviet Union from Lenin to focus on the enduring myth of the vampire, from pre-history to the present day. In Russia: Magnificence, Mayhem and Mafia, you’ll analyze literature, film and visual arts – from Dostoevsky to Russian organized crime groups – as you discuss the Russian impact on the world in all its manifestations.
Beyond the classroom
Говорите по-русски? Нет? Каждый вторник мы приглашаем ВСЕХ на чашку чая. Interested in Russian culture? Need help with homework? Join your peers at the lunchtime Russian Table for lively language discussions and games.
Study abroad
The Office of International Programs offers a term in Irkutsk, Russia, a city of 600,000 along the Angara River. Students tour the Kremlin in Moscow and the Hermitage in St. Petersburg on their excursions to the present-day and former capital of Russia. In addition, students can explore key historical and political sites in St. Petersburg, Moscow and Novgorod on a Union summer mini-term called Russian and Soviet Empires: The Tsars, the Revolution and Beyond. This program examines the concept of empire in Russia before and after the 1917 Bolshevik revolution.
After Union
- Social studies teacher
- General management assistant, Frankel Green Theatrical Managemen
- Associate, Greenwald Law Offices
- Graduate student, Sports Industry Management, Georgetown University