Fully-Funded STARTALK Russian Immersion Program: "Trans-Siberian Adventure"
This year, the American Russian Center received a STARTALK grant to offer a fully funded Russian immersion program "Trans-Siberian Adventure" in the Twin Cities, MN at no cost to 30 students in grades 9–14.
The program provides students with a dynamic and immersive learning experience, combining language instruction with cultural exploration along one of the world's most iconic routes. Each study day focuses on learning Russian through the lens of a specific city or region along the Trans-Siberian Railway. By engaging with authentic materials and participating in experiential activities— such as exploring a region’s geography, landscape, cultural diversity, local cuisine, crafts, music, and more — students will develop linguistic proficiency, cultural competency, and a deeper appreciation for the rich diversity of the Trans-Siberian route.
The program's objectives include significantly improving linguistic proficiency in Russian and fostering cultural awareness and appreciation for the diverse cultures along the Trans-Siberian route.
ELIGIBILITY
Students entering grades 9–14 at the beginning of the 2024 academic year are eligible to apply. Prior experience with the Russian language is required. Full commitment to the program, including attendance at all three parts (pre-camp, two-week overnight camp, and post-camp), is mandatory.
COST
There is no tuition cost to participate. All tuition, materials, food, and accommodations for the overnight camp are fully covered by the grant. However, travel to and from the camp is not included.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, starting October 30.
FINAL SHOWCASE AND PROGRAM DIPLOMA
The Trans-Siberian Fair, presented by all students in October 2025, will showcase a variety of projects developed throughout the program. These projects will include cultural maps, multimedia presentations, handmade crafts, travel brochures and advertisements, posters, interactive exhibits, traditional performances, and more. Each project will highlight the students' skills in research, creativity, language proficiency, and cultural understanding, offering a comprehensive display of their learning journey.
Upon successfully completing the full program, students will be awarded an official STARTALK Diploma, recognizing 163 hours of Russian language instruction.
DETAILS FOR OVERNIGHT CAMP
Camp Courage is set on 238 acres of scenic lakeshore, woods, and fields near Maple Lake, Minnesota, along the beautiful Cedar Lake.
We will be staying in air-conditioned cabins on the Woodland campus, each equipped with a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and a private bathroom and shower for each room.
Students will have access to a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, tubing on the lake, pontoon rides, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, a water mat, a mud pit, archery, slingshots, and a high ropes challenge course with a zipline.
INFORMATIONAL ZOOM SESSIONS
October 21, 2024 at 6 pm and November 4, 2024 at 6 pm. Sign up here to get a link. If you are unable to attend, presentation slides are available below.
