Hey guys,
So as many of you know I have a crazy year
ahead of me. However, for those who don't know or want to know more, I have
decided to compile this post to let you all know what's going on. So, if you
didn't already know, I am studying Russian, Spanish and European Studies at the
University of Bath in the UK. As a requirement of my course, the
third year of study is a Year Abroad, where I have to spend a minimum
of 3 months in each language-speaking country, as well as being abroad for the
existing term dates. Over the last 6 months or so I have been planning non-stop
and have finally got a pretty good idea of where I'm going and what I will be
doing. So, I'm now going to let you guys see what I've been planning...
Ok, so like I said, I have to spend at least 3
months in both Russia and a Spanish-speaking country.
First Semester:
On the 7th September 2013, I am moving to
Russia! The flights are booked and the visa application is in progress. I will
be moving to a place called Voronezh (Воронеж), which is about 1 hr
flight south of Moscow. I will be spending about 3.5 months there and will be
studying Russian at Voronezh State University. As you can imagine, this is
all terribly exciting yet absolutely petrifying! It's a completely
different culture and of course, language, so it is going to be interesting to
say the least. I will be staying with a Хозяйка (housewife/host), which will
really improve my language skills (which need the help!) My return flights are
booked for the 14th December, so I will be back in time for Christmas.
(Source: Google Maps)
Second Semester:
As you can imagine, the second semester isn't
quite as planned out yet but I do know where I'm going and what I'm doing. I
basically had the choice of going to South America or Spain,
and ultimately decided to settle on Spain as I didn't want to pick up
and South American Spanish that could end up confusing me. After my trip last
summer, I fell in love with Madrid and knew that I wanted to return there. I
have applied to study at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, a well know uni
in the centre of Madrid. I am slightly less apprehensive about moving
to Spain for a few reasons. 1). I speak much better Spanish than Russian, 2). I
have been to Spain and am much more familiar with the culture, and 3). It is so
much closer to home, both geographically and in ease (eg. I won't need a visa!)
I will be moving out there at the beginning of February 2014 and the
term ends in mid July, so I will turn 21 when I'm there!
(Source: Google Maps)
(Source: Google Maps)
So those are my plans. I
obviously haven't included everything but if you do want to know more then feel
free to leave a comment below or contact me elsewhere.
Until next time,
Isobel
x
