GapYearMentor

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Could be a Gap Year with a difference - or the first stage of a degree.
Prepare in the UK to study in Novosibirsk in Russia - now a realistic option.

You should be under 30 to satisfy the requirements of the Russian educational system.

Because of all that has happened in the last twelve months -
in the economy and in education generally -
this might be a very practical solution to students’ problems.

There are many advantages to this approach -
Places are available for foreign students
Tuition costs are usually less - sometimes considerably less - than UK universities
Accommodation costs can be much lower in cities like Novosibirsk - but the quality is variable - consequently it needs to be checked carefully. I have selected the best available in the city.
Living costs can be less than the UK - but Russia can also be expensive -
guidance is essential. Moscow & St Petersburg have higher prices for most things.
In provincial cities bargains can be found - if you know where and how to find them.

Academic standards can be higher than in the UK - with two exams per year.
But by working conscientiously - and with proper guidance -
students should have little difficulty in preparing for the exams - and passing them.

It is important to study with two languages. Questions can be answered by an English
teacher before the trip to Russia and a solid foundation can be built for the year in the city. The spoken word can then be used with native Russian speakers whilst in Novosibirsk. Using total immersion techniques - fluency and a high standard in the language will be the goal. Assistance from an English teacher will be available throughout the year in Novosibirsk.

Guidance can be given on part-time work in the city to reduce the cost of the trip.
But this needs to be looked at very carefully. There are also opportunities to do research –
but again this needs to be approached with care.


Why Novosibirsk? -
In the 1950s the Soviet Union created the first scientific town in the world
in Akademgorodok - within the boundaries of the city of Novosibirsk.

Many universities were established in the city - and there are now about 58.

The Novosibirsk Report of 1983 was prepared in Akademgorodok.
It was this document that led - to perestroika and glasnost -
and eventually to the collapse of the communist system -
and the break up of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Novosibirsk is located not only in the geographical centre of Russia -
but is also - intellectually and historically - at the hub of the nation.
It is an intellectual powerhouse - an undiscovered Siberian gem.

It is a major stop on the Trans-Siberian railway and is situated on
the banks of the river Ob - the fifth longest river in the world.
So it is in an ideal position for visiting other parts of Russia -
including World Heritage Sites. There is however much to see
in the city itself. Details will be given during an Email exchange
and at subsequent meetings.

I specialize in just one city in Russia - Novosibirsk -
and have been researching this project for over seven years.
I have been there many times - and accordingly I have
a fairly detailed local knowledge of the city.

For example - one of the leading libraries in Russia dealing with science
and technology is only five minutes walk from the students' hostel.
Indeed it might be one of the top libraries in the world in its field -
'State Public Library of Scientific and Technical Literature'.
This is an ideal library for doing research - perhaps commercial research.


The first year can be a Gap Year with a difference -
A Unique Cultural Experience - and an exciting adventure.
Study the Russian language - to a very high level - aim at fluency.
This year could also be of value to students
wanting to specialize in the Russian language or Russian studies generally.
Check out the area and other universities - at leisure and with advice.
It will be possible to visit some of them during the time in the city.
I have established contacts with several universities - including ones
specializing in - Architecture, Building & Civil Engineering - Science & Technology -
Medicine - Music. After considering these and - perhaps many more - including subjects that aren't taught in the UK - the student can then decide whether to continue to study in Russia for a degree - or perhaps to return to the UK.
Credits are available in UK universities for the time spent studying in Russia .


Opportunity to attend Russian language courses before travelling to Novosibirsk - the golden rule is a little but often. I am preparing a short course for the summer break. It will be an introduction to the Russian language for beginners and will be followed by Email support. Study materials can be loaned out – and a large variety is available.
This approach will continue for the next year

& a four day course will be organized shortly.


This is the ideal time to prepare for September 2013.
It is essential to start planning early because :-
Details need to be organized with the university in Novosibirsk
There is competition for places from other countries.
Visas need to be obtained - and it is necessary to choose the ‘best’ one.
Advice can be given on life in Russia and questions answered.
Students can be guided on how to study Russian up to their arrival in Novosibirsk.

If you would like a no-obligation discussion please contact me.