Students of the preparatory department with Associate Professor Irina Chechik (center) on a walking tour of the city
In May, the SPbGASU Department of Intercultural Communication traditionally held thematic classes for international students in the Preparatory Department, focusing on significant holidays and cultural events in Russia.
The series of events opened with lessons dedicated to Spring and Labor Day. Natalia Savelyeva, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Intercultural Communication, introduced students to the history and modern traditions of May Day celebrations in Russia. International students enthusiastically shared their experiences of celebrating this holiday in their own countries, which allowed the participants to exchange cultural experiences and better understand each other's traditions.
At the end of May, the department held themed lessons dedicated to the Day of Slavic Literature and Culture, celebrated annually on 24 May. The holiday coincides with the feast day of the holy brothers Cyril and Methodius, equal to the apostles, who created the first Slavic alphabet.
During the classes, the international students learned about the history of the Slavic written language and its importance for the development of culture and education. They read texts about Cyril and Methodius, traced the changes that have occurred in the Russian alphabet over the centuries, and compared the two oldest Slavic alphabets—Cyrillic and Glagolitic. Practical assignments were particularly interesting: participants tried reading words in Old Church Slavonic and studied a map of countries that use the Cyrillic alphabet. These classes helped the international students gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Russian language, appreciate its richness and uniqueness, and strengthened their interest in further learning Russian.
Teachers from the Department of Intercultural Communication also prepared events to mark St Petersburg City Day, traditionally celebrated on 27 May.
On 25 May, Associate Professor Irina Chechik led international students from the Preparatory Department on a walking tour of the city's historic center. The students visited the Field of Mars, the Summer Garden, and Arts Square. During the tour, they learned about the city's founding and many fascinating facts about its past and present. The festive atmosphere and city events allowed the students to combine Russian language practice with a hands-on experience of the cultural and historical heritage of the Northern Capital.
On 27 May, Department Assistant Marina Mizgireva held a quiz game about St Petersburg for Chinese students in the preparatory department. Participants answered questions about the city's history, its landmarks, and prominent figures associated with the city on the Neva.
All the thematic classes were informative and engaging. They helped international students expand their knowledge of Russian history, language, and culture, and facilitated successful sociocultural adaptation and a keen interest in learning Russian.
