What inspired you to work for Learn Russian in the European Union?
I chose this organization because of its commitment to language learning and cultural understanding.
I believe education builds bridges between people, and here I can help students connect, communicate, and grow confidently in a supportive, engaging environment every day with purpose and care in a friendly environment.
On ERASMUS trip to Portugal
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is witnessing the moment when the language “clicks” for a student. Russian can feel intimidating at first, but there is a point when students begin to think in the language rather than translate—and seeing that transformation is incredibly rewarding.
I also love the personal connections that naturally form in the classroom. Every student brings their own motivations, cultural background, and learning style, and getting to know them allows me to tailor lessons in a way that supports their growth. After twenty years at Learn Russian in the EU, I can say that no two days have ever been the same.
Another part I truly enjoy is integrating culture into the learning process—whether through discussions of literature, music, or everyday life in the Russian-speaking world. Language and culture are inseparable, and helping students experience that connection is always a highlight of my work.
What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges is helping students stay confident as they progress through the more complex aspects of Russian—cases, aspect, verb prefixes, and pronunciation can all feel overwhelming.
Over the years, I’ve learned that the best way to handle this is to break concepts down into manageable steps and provide plenty of structured practice. I also remind students that making mistakes is a natural and essential part of language learning.
Another challenge is adapting to the varied learning styles and backgrounds students bring to the classroom. Some learn quickly through conversation, while others prefer grammar-focused explanations or visual materials. To overcome this, I use a flexible approach: I combine communicative activities, cultural content, grammar explanations, and real-life tasks so that every student can engage in a way that works for them.
Finally, motivation can sometimes fluctuate, especially during longer programs. To keep students engaged, I emphasize practical achievements—like ordering a meal, holding a short conversation, or understanding a local news segment. Celebrating these small victories helps students see their progress clearly and stay enthusiastic.
These challenges aren’t obstacles—they’re opportunities to refine my teaching and support each student more effectively. After twenty years in the field, they’ve become a rewarding part of the job.
Daugavpils University
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Don’t worry so much about fitting in. You already belong to the world you’re going to see. Trust yourself and trust the journey.
Let curiosity guide you, welcome new connections, savor small moments, breathe deeply, take photos, journal often, and remember each step reveals who you are becoming. Enjoy your every moment.
Why should someone choose Learn Russian in the European Union over competitors?
Our organization stands out for its commitment to high-quality language education and cultural understanding.
We provide personalized support, meaningful learning experiences, and a welcoming environment that helps students grow, build confidence, and develop real-world communication skills in the city where language is spoken by almost everyone.
What is Learn Russian in the European Union's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
Our mission is to provide high-quality language education while fostering cultural understanding.
We work toward it by offering engaging, personalized learning experiences, supporting students’ growth, and continuously improving our teaching methods to meet diverse needs. We value each and every one of our students.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope participants gain confidence in communication, a deeper understanding of language and culture, and practical skills they can apply in real life. I want them to leave inspired, curious, and motivated to continue learning, connecting, and growing with others.
Besides that, I hope they really enjoy the time with us.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures broadens perspectives, fosters empathy, and helps people see the world beyond their own experiences.
It encourages personal growth, adaptability, and an appreciation for diversity, creating more open-minded, connected, and thoughtful individuals. The more people know about the world the better the world gets.
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
Learning a new language is important because it expands a person’s world in ways that few other skills can.
A language is not just vocabulary and grammar—it is a key to understanding how people think, communicate, and experience life. When students learn Russian, for example, they gain access to a rich cultural, historical, and literary heritage that cannot be fully appreciated through translation alone.
Language learning also develops essential cognitive skills. It improves memory, enhances problem-solving abilities, and strengthens the ability to understand different perspectives. I’ve seen students become more confident, flexible, and curious simply by engaging with a new linguistic system.
Summer 2022
On a practical level, another language opens doors. It can create academic opportunities, make travel more meaningful, and broaden professional possibilities in fields such as diplomacy, business, science, and international cooperation.
Most importantly, learning a new language builds connections. It helps people communicate across borders, appreciate cultural differences, and find common ground. In today’s world, those human connections are more valuable than ever.
That is why teaching languages has been my passion for so many years—and why I encourage every student to embrace the challenge and the joy of learning one.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is about more than visiting new places—it’s about connecting with people, immersing yourself in different cultures, and learning from every experience. It’s an opportunity to grow personally, broaden perspectives, and carry those lessons into everyday life and interactions.
