Russia, the USA, and my NYU Dream

Who knew that Russia would become so important in the US today?  I certainly did not when I choose Russian Studies and International Relations as my dream job and career. How I chose that degree goes back years.

I have always loved politics and the shaping of world events.  I wanted to know how other people were living and how that impacted our lives, both personally and as a nation.  

After my junior year of college, I moved to Europe to see if I had a vocation to be a religious sister.  I saw that it was not for me, but I did get the chance to live in Northern Spain for two years and in Italy two years (including Rome and outside of Milan).  

For example, I was a translator for a news agency located in Rome, while also working in mass media. I was behind the camera and conducted interviews in Spanish, English, and Italian. I had encounters with psychologists, philosophers, cardinals, and young people from a wide array of cultures. I even got to meet and speak with the Pope!

I knew that my love of politics and my fascination with other peoples and cultures had to come together.  International Relations seemed the perfect fit.  Everyone knew that the Middle East and China were important in Global Affairs, but I felt that Russia was also pivotal, but often forgotten. And when we do think of Russia, I think the images of Putin and Communism come to mind.  But what if  Russians do not see themselves that way?   What if we should approach our relationship with a different outlook?

In order to reach my dream at NYU, I will be going to ASU in Tempe, AZ this summer for 8 weeks to learn a year's worth of Russian! I will then be going to Kyrgyzstan for a month. I will live with a host family that will only speak to me in Russian. I know after living in Europe that immersion is key.

I would also love to have a type of Humans of New York photography project on the side, which would tell the Russian story with a new perspective through photos.  

At NYU, I can acquire the expertise I need so that I can approach our relationship with Russia in the way that it deserves.The amount of $85, 216 is for 2-year tution to get my Master's Degree at NYU GSAS for Russian Studies with a concentration in International Relations. When I was a religious for 8 years, I worked the whole time, but did not get paid since we live a vow of poverty.  When I graduate, my dream is to be able to work right away in helping to better US-Russian relations. Russia is a people, a history, a story, and it is a key player in the international field right now.

I would like to be a part of that story.  

 I would also really appreciate an address for those who decide to help me, so that I can send a personalized "Thank you" letter.