Why did you decide to volunteer with Global Volunteers in Russia?
Norman: I had not been to Russia/the Soviet Union since 1969 and wanted to check it out after the break-up of the Soviet Union. They were looking for volunteers with business background to train Russian business people and I was a banker. I am a Russian speaker. The trip included Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.
Norman: Day to day activities included conducting seminars for Russian business people during the week and sightseeing on the weekends. There was lots of interaction with Russians because of the topics and our background as American business people. Many were just starting their businesses, so our presence could not have been more timely.
How has this experience helped you grow personally and professionally?
Norman: The trip ultimately led to my departure from banking and becoming an international consultant in the financial sector, so it had a big impact on my career.