Testimonial by Anastasija Mladenovska

My two weeks in the Russian Winter School were nothing short of transformative. When I think back to Armenia, I see pomegranates, grapes, and apricots, the symbols our tour guide explained so beautifully that they now live in my memory forever. I still think about how, when cut open, a pomegranate forms a perfect cross: a quiet but powerful reminder of Armenia’s spiritual endurance and the way history, faith, and beauty intertwine in everyday life.

Academically, the program was exceptional. My instructor, Aliona Shestakova-Stukun, taught with a rare combination of clarity, warmth, and discipline. Every lesson with her felt like a gift. My study buddy Joseph, who quickly became my best friend, made the experience even better. Though we were at different levels, studying together pushed me forward in ways I didn’t expect. I miss him every day.

And then there was Armenia itself. I tasted incredible sujuk and arishta, heard “baravidets” at every doorway, and bought the most beautiful scarf at Vernissage Market. A taxi driver once refused to take my money, simply saying, “This is Armenia.

We visited Garni Temple, Geghard Monastery, Ohanavank, the National Gallery, Matenadaran, the Genocide Museum, but Mother Armenia was my favorite, a towering symbol of strength and memory.

I left the Winter School with stronger Russian, and a heart permanently tied to Armenia.