A Summer Unlike Any Other

As I always tell people when they come to me with questions of studying abroad, it was the best decision I've made in college.

I went on the summer program to St. Petersburg after my freshman year of college. Having never taken Russian before I was placed in the beginners class with 5 other students and we had a wonderful teacher who was very patient. I also took the History of Saint Petersburg which included some extra excursions like a tour of Smolny Institute.

The cultural excursions were the best part. I had been dreaming of seeing the Hermitage and the Church on Spilled Blood. My favorite place to visit ended up being Peter and Paul Fortress where my new friends and I would sit with our feet in the Neva.

I can't say enough good things about the AIF St. Petersburg program. St. Petersburg is so rich in history and culture. After my program I was surprised how useful my knowledge of St. Petersburg and Russia was. With Russia constantly staying in the headlines of foreign policy and politics it's worth getting a closer look at this country.