Notes from UnderGrad spring 2012 by Kostiantyn Iakovliev

Spring 2012

Passport to America

p. 2-6

My Advisor & Me

p. 7-9

Passport to America is the vehicle by which current Global UGRAD fellows share their experiences and impressions about American life and culture.

For many Global UGRAD fellows, the advisor plays a vital role throughout the entire Global UGRAD experience. The advisor introduces fellows to their community, helps fellows choose courses, and guides fellows through their time in the United States. In this section, fellows and advisors reflect together on the amazing bond that develops over the course of a year in the United States.

Making a Difference p. 10-14

Alumni Updates

Global UGRAD fellows and alumni are a strong network of active people who help their communities. They design and implement development projects and per form community service. They promote positive social change and raise awareness about important social issues to those around them.

Global UGRAD alumni grow professionally following their program experience. Alumni enter into public service, succeed in the corporate world, and help their countries to develop socially and economically. This section highlights the personal and professional achievements of Global UGRAD alumni.

p. 15-17

FROM

Notes UnderGrad

Global Undergraduate Exchange Program in Eurasia & Central Asia

Spring 2012

THE

About Newsletter ........................................................................ Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

Notes from UnderGrad is a forum for the Global Undergraduate Exchange Program community to express views and share the Global UGRAD program participant and alumni experience. The newsletter is sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State and produced by IREX.

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) of the US Department of State fosters mutual understanding between the United States and other countries through international educational and training programs. The bureau does so by promoting personal, professional, and institutional ties between private citizens and organizations in the United States and abroad, as well as by presenting US history, society, art and culture in all of its diversity to overseas audiences.

IREX (the International Research & Exchanges Board) is an international nonprofit organization providing leadership and innovative programs to improve the quality of education, strengthen independent media, and foster pluralistic civil society development. Founded in 1968, IREX has an annual portfolio of $60 million and a staff of over 500 professionals worldwide. IREX and its partner IREX Europe deliver cross-cutting programs and consulting expertise in more than 100 countries.

Passport to America

Passpor t to America is the vehicle by which current Global UGRAD fellows share their experiences and impressions about American life and culture.

The Real American Classroom Salome Kikvadze Georgia, Missouri State Universit y, 2011-2012

Do not think that the classrooms in America are special rooms. They are more or less the same as I had previously experienced. Rather, the key difference is what happens in these classrooms. Little did I know that the American classroom would be such a source of culture shock! Besides the necessity to always show up on time, the most striking initial shock was the interactions between the professors and students populating these rooms. They not only communicate with one another in mutual dialogue, but students are free to ask questions, to openly discuss ideas, and if necessary, to reason with their professors in an articulate and respectful manner.

really learn how to write, how to research and properly cite sources, and how to provide important feedback through peer reviewing other papers. I have developed the ability to critically and comprehensibly examine other's work, and through this, my own as well. The American classroom is more than just a room. It's an idea. It's where Europeans, Asians, Africans, and Americans come together as one, where professors treat students with respect, where I have learned new skills in critical analysis, and where I have gained a new perspective on life that transcends the classroom.

The Southerner Anton Dudko Ukraine, Universit y of Louisiana at Monroe, 2011-2012

An additional shock came in discovering how supportive and involved professors are in a student's academic success. I was the only international student in an advanced sociology class, and not being a native speaker of English like all the other American students, I found the fast paced discussions confusing and distancing. I was unable to keep up and stay involved in class discussions. However, I utilized my professor's office hours, something unheard of back home, and my professor eagerly worked with me to overcome my problems. Another shock was seeing firsthand how American classes can be distinguished by their immense cultural diversity. My first class was an English writing class and in it were students from around the world - Japan, China, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, India, South Korea and Georgia. Just through this one class and close interaction with my fellow students I became familiar with so many different countries, cultures, and traditions, something that would never be possible back home.

Notes from UnderGrad

Finally, American classes afforded me the possibility to

Before arriving in the U.S., I knew a few general things about American culture, but southern culture was something that was never highlighted. When I received my host institution placement at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, I had to copy and paste this name into Google. The search revealed such words as Mississippi River, Alligators, and Mardi-Gras. What was I getting myself into? Unlike someone such as myself from Ukraine, if you were born in Louisiana these phrases were part of your genetic makeup and part of the fabric of southern life. Take Mardi-

Gras. It seemed to be the only thing everyone talked about and even Mark Twain once wrote in one of his letters in 1859 that "I may say that an American has not seen the United States until he has seen Mardi-Gras in New Orleans”. After a long wait February arrived, and with it, MardiGras. I can officially say that I have seen the United States.

Being surrounded by this culture, not only in New Orleans but back in my host community, I saw and felt every day the resilient spirit flowing around me. Though “hard working” is often cited as a quintessential American value, I also learned the value of slowing life down and taking it easy in "The Big Easy".

But that experience wasn't just about the one month of Carnival season. Rather, it introduced me to the ways people look at things down in the South. Listening to live music in the French Quarter, I realized an eternal optimism flows from that city and through all the people in the South. To think about what Hurricane Katrina has done to them and to see how they got up and continued on with a smile is nothing short of amazing.

As my Global UGRAD journey comes to an end, I certainly feel that I'll be bringing back a large chunk of the American South back home with me. It's part of my identity now and I couldn't be happier. Building mutual understanding and engaging in cross cultural activities is a vital part of the Global UGRAD program, and I can't wait to greet my friends in Ukraine with a friendly "y'all" and a bowl of hot gumbo!

Ever yday a Holiday Diyora Salametova Uzbekistan, Nor theast Wisconsin Technical College, 2011-2012

Every day is like a holiday to me. Being in the far northern reaches of the U.S., my first “holiday” was unlike any other and remains an unforgettable experience. You see, I was placed in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Little did I know what those words mean to the average American and that the first stamp in my Cultural Passport would be my immersion into the world of American football. When I first did a Google search of Green Bay hundreds of pictures about football and fans wearing green tshirts with the word “PACKERS” on them came up. I had no idea what any of this meant except these people looked absolutely crazy. Well, now I'm crazy too. My wonderful host family bought me tickets to a game and it was such an amazing experience. On the way to the stadium, I became surrounded by a crowd of people wearing cheese hats and Packers t-shirts and their excitement was contagious. I had never been in such a big stadium, let alone one where there were no empty seats. In that one, whirlwind day I learned the rules and about the different players. It was amazing, but the experience didn't end there. A little over a week later I was at a Boys & Girls Club taking kids to the Driver Foundation, a local foundation created by the star wide receiver Donald Driver. I got to shake his hand and see the important work he does for his community. Now more often than not you will find me wearing Green Bay Packers t-shirts. This was my first “holiday” and there have been hundreds more since then. I'm so thankful to the Global UGRAD program for giving an opportunity to students from all over the world to have such amazing experiences.

The United States George Kordzakhia Georgia, Troy Universit y, 2011-2012

The United States! These three words sound so amazing, but behind those words is a huge collection of amazing memories that capture the total American experience. As every step you take opens up a new world of diverse possibilities, it's incredibly difficult to decide where to begin in describing this country. Because of this, it's best to start at the beginning. I clearly remember my arrival. When I left the airport I saw beautiful huge buildings adorned with U.S. flags and crowded and clean streets with businesspeople running from one place to another. It was like a Hollywood movie come to life and made for a stunning and unforgettable first impression. My cultural immersion continued as I arrived at my host university. With few barriers between us,

Passport to America

Notes from UnderGrad Spring 2012

Notes from UnderGrad

it was easy to break the ice with fellow students and make many American friends during that first month. We exchanged information about our history, traits, and beliefs as we came to understand one another. It was hard to believe how warm and helpful the people were. Together with my friends, I began visiting local historical places which added context to my town's culture and my daily life. Before long I had the most remarkable experience when I attended my first American college football game. Before the home game started, international students participated in a tailgate party where we each had the opportunity to carry our country's flag and proudly represent our home country. I took great pleasure in participating in this and found even greater pleasure as we won the game. Throughout the day the whole campus was crowded with students, community members, and alumni. It was inspiring to experience this sense of community as everyone connected over such a singular event. After becoming familiar with my own community, I decided it was time to visit other states and see what else was out there. Before I arrived in the U.S., I believed that if you knew one state then you would know them all, but I found this was far from the truth. Through my journeys I discovered that each state has its own unique history and culture, populated by people with different accents, beliefs, traits, and viewpoints. They varied just as much as the buildings and scenery and it was eye-opening to see just how diverse the U.S. truly was. My time in the U.S, both inside my local community and my travels outside it, has helped me to know the real America, united together despite its staggering diversity. This program has brought my dreams to reality, and in the process I've been able to see that the American dream is alive and well in its beautiful people, history, and culture.

Holiday World Mahri Orazova Turkmenistan, Murray State Universit y, 2011-2012

My Global UGRAD experience has been defined by American holidays. Halloween was the first American holiday I experienced and because of this it holds special significance to me. My friend took me to a local haunted forest where different characters from horror movies came to life. It was thirty minutes of non-stop screaming and I've never been so terrified in all my life.

Passport to America

Thanksgiving was the second holiday I experienced. It had long been a dream to know how Americans really celebrated this holiday. No book or movie could match the sensation of experiencing it in person. Not only did I get to participate in all the amazing feasting, but I was able to watch the Thanksgiving parade live in Chicago. It was amazing to see so many people marching down Chicago's main street with a giant turkey smack in the middle of everything! Next were the Christmas and New Year's celebrations, by far the most memorable. Ever since I was a little kid, my family would all sit together and watch the "Home Alone" movies. I clearly remember the moment when the main character was standing and staring at the Christmas tree in New York City. This image, this city, became my dream, and I knew it was where I had to celebrate my holidays!

Not only did I get to see that beautiful tree, but I took it one step further by going to Times Square on New Year's Eve. Many people told me I was crazy, that I would get tired, become frozen, and go starving while waiting for the ball to drop. I was happy I didn't listen to them. My emotions were overwhelmed once the ball dropped. It was like jumping out of a plane. Then as the clock struck midnight, everyone embraced their neighbors as if they were life-long friends. Calls of "Happy New Year" rang in the air as people jumped up and down wishing good luck for 2012. I will never forget feeling so connected to humanity. I don't think the New Year could have started in a more brilliant manner and I feel fortunate to have experienced it. These holidays, in conjunction with all my other daily experiences, have defined my time as a Global UGRAD fellow and have informed a key part in understanding American culture.

The Impor tance of Communit y Olga Kislun Russia, Bethany College, 2011-2012

My time on the Global UGRAD program at Bethany College in Lindsborg, KS has made an incredible impact on my life. I've had the unique opportunity to look at the world from a new perspective and every experience has informed my understanding of the American sense of community. My time has shown me that Americans are extremely concerned about their community and that from a very early age they are taught to be good citizens who are able to make a difference and react to needs and issues that are happening around them. Americans are also actively engaged in community life through a well-developed community service network. While conducting my volunteer work in a local church, I met a great number of local volunteers who eagerly helped organize extracurricular activities for kids. I soon volunteered with them. And then at my own college, we have many opportunities for community service which the majority of students eagerly participate in. For instance, together with Bethany Green Team members I volunteered at the Prairie Festival helping serve food to participants. I am also very proud of my host community which consists of very friendly, considerate, and open-minded people. Founded by Swedish emigrants, Lindsborg is famous for its festivals and holidays celebrating Swedish traditions. Every two years in October, this little town attracts a great number of people by celebrating Hyllnyngsfest, and on this day all the students from local schools participate in national Swedish dances in the town's main street. I've been lucky enough to see this memorable show and came away impressed by the enthusiasm of the young dancers and the ties that remain to their ancestral heritage. They have done their best to preserve precious traditions that unite citizens, encourage love, and show respect. All of these experiences have been very unusual for me and far different than what I might experience in my own country. But these experiences have also been incredibly valuable to me. They have given me a glimpse into the unique community that permeates through American society and they've given me important life lessons that I will draw upon for the rest of my life.

Opened Eyes Ulugbek Abduqayumov Uzbekistan, Southeast Communit y College, 2011-2012

As I was driven across the state of Nebraska towards the town of Beatrice for the first time, I couldn't help but think that I was going to die of boredom. However, first impressions gave way to reality and everything became the opposite of what I'd initially perceived. From the first week of my stay here, I started realizing that there were actually many activities to participate in. A mere ten minutes from my dorm there was car racing every Friday night at the Beatrice Speedway. In addition to hosting me as an intern, the Beatrice Chamber of Commerce organizes events at the Homestead Monument of America and the Gage County Fairground. And I discovered a world of exciting possibilities at the Nebraska State Fair.

Passport to America

Notes from UnderGrad

Spring 2012

Notes from UnderGrad

Perhaps the most amazing event I participated in was the fall air show at the Lincoln Municipal Airport. Volunteering through the Beatrice Rotary Club, I arrived at the airport early every morning. My primary responsibility was to make refreshments for visitors and for the first time I made the quintessential American drink of lemonade. I was also able to simply enjoy the show. Starting around 11:00 in the morning, with thousands of people in attendance, we watched as different airplanes flew overhead performing tricks at impossible angles. What an incredible sight it was to see one particular pilot soaring down from the sky and flying the American flag behind his plane. However, the most exhilarating part of the show occurred some 4 hours in when the Blue Angels made their appearance. Perhaps the most beloved group to Nebraskans, I couldn't help but stare in awe at the beauty and precision of these high speed angels flying through the sky. This highlight was capped as I met the pilots and received their autographs! Finally, all of these amazing experiences, both on campus and off, have allowed me to meet numerous local people I otherwise never would have met. We shared our cultures and learned from one another and I'm proud to call many of these people my friends. I never would have expected any of this as I made that first drive into town, but I'm happy that Beatrice is such a small town after all!

Alice in Wonderland Marika Mkheidze Georgia, Utica College, 2011-2012

Let's start with some background information. I am a student from Georgia participating in the Global UGRAD program. For those who do not know anything about my country (yes, country, not the state) it is a tiny spot on the map, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, next to the Black Sea and between Russia and Turkey. I will have spent my entire year in Utica, NY, a small town with an even smaller college. It's the perfect environment if you do not want to be distracted from your studies. I have seen a lot, experienced a lot, and heard a lot and I really feel that I have something to say.

Passport to America

The title of this submission is “Alice in Wonderland, but it's not because of any particular affection I have towards the book or its author, Lewis Carroll. Rather, it's because as a foreign exchange student I feel much like Alice and have found myself in a strange, confusing, yet appealing world. I've noticed many American students consider Europeans and generally other international students as some kind of alien species, visitors from an absolutely different planet. Considering all the cultural and life-style differences that statement might be closer to the truth than we realize. However, all this diversity and all these differences are by far the most interesting parts of our world and cause our lives to be full of exciting experiences. During my time in the U.S., I have tasted the full diversity of feelings. I have done things I've never done before and have become more accepting to new things. I've become more independent and I've been able to more freely show and share my emotions. As an international student I have

explored and discovered a United States that those around me often don't see. And even some of those fictional characters from “Alice in Wonderland” really live beside me and are present in my life here. I have met the white rabbit frightened of upsetting the authority. I have come across the Cheshire cat with his mischievous but appealing smile, always disappearing and reappearing in the most unexpected moments. And I have my own wise caterpillar – the person I can always go to for advice and who will explain everything I ever need to know about these “different Americans”. I've had the privilege to peer through the looking glass and I like what I've seen.

Giving Thanks Ivan Peremitin Kazakhstan, Bluefield State College, 2011-2012

The Global UGRAD program has given me an amazing opportunity to discover America. I will never forget this year in the U.S. and the many places I've visited and the new friends I've made. One of many memorable trips was to the West Coast and the great state of California. My friend Oleg studies in San Diego and he gladly agreed to host me during my Thanksgiving break. Oleg lives with an American family, BJ and Gary, who have been leasing rooms in their house to international students for the past 20 years. Having worked and taught English for international students for many years in one of San Diego's language schools, BJ was very warm and welcoming. Gary, a history buff, was also very friendly and loved to talk about the area. His hobby is kayaking and everyday he heads

to San Diego Bay where he kayaks for an hour. One day while Oleg was at school, Gary took me with him to San Diego Bay where I kayaked for the first time. What a wonderful feeling and what a beautiful place. San Diego is a great city and seeing it from the water I quickly fell in love with it. But the most exciting event, however, was the celebration and feasting on Thanksgiving Day. I spent that special day with Oleg, BJ, Gary, and the other international students who lived in the house. BJ's daughter came over in the morning and together they cooked numerous foods for the dinner, the most special of course being the turkey. Throughout the dinner this wonderful American family told us about the history of that day and everyone gave thankful speeches to one another. I'll never forget that trip, those people, or that festive ambience. It filled me with so many positive impressions of Americans and their lives. I'll head home feeling so thankful to have participated in this experience.

My Advisor & Me For many Global UGRAD fellows, the advisor plays a vital role throughout the entire Global UGRAD experience. The advisor introduces fellows to their communit y, helps fellows choose courses, and guides fellows through their time in the United States. In this section, fellows and advisors reflect together on the amazing bond that develops over the course of a year in the United States.

Just Call Me Bill Anton Dudko Ukraine, Universit y of Louisiana at Monroe, 2011-2012

Sitting at my pre-departure orientation this past summer in Ukraine, I looked towards the page of our handbook mentioning our advisors and I wrote a simple note in the margins - This will be my friend! As one of five other Global UGRAD fellows at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, upon meeting our cultural advisor in September we all asked him the same question - How should we address you? His simple response â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Just call me Bill. Before retiring in 2002, Bill (a.k.a. Dr. William Rambin) worked at our university for 34 years. He'd been around the world, seeing it all â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from military service in Germany and Vietnam to working the lights on an Elvis Presley show. But now, we'd have Bill as our guide, public

My Advisor & Me

Notes from UnderGrad

Spring 2012

Notes from UnderGrad

relations guru, and cultural interpreter to Monroe, Louisiana. Bill's wife of 51 years sadly passed away prior to our arrival to the United States, and in part, it was one of the reasons Bill hopped right back into working with international students. Bill remarked to us that "to this day, I don't know whether Dr. Loeb [our campus host advisor] truly needed my help with these students or she was trying to help me! In the weeks and months to come, we went to dozens of events around our cozy little town. A tradition soon developed and every weekend became dinner and a movie with authentic Eurasian cooking at Bill's place. Representing the very best of Louisiana, his house is a cultural experience on its own: flush up against a bayou with alligators lurking underwater, cypress trees catching the setting sun, and canoes tied to a dock. No matter how my days went, I knew that at the end of each week I'd get to hear Bill's stories and advice in an attempt to make some sense of this culturally alien environment I'd found myself in. Bill laid the ground rules early and told us that we could ask any questions on any topics. This open dialogue allowed me to examine my own experiences through the prism of his life-long experiences. His advice and wisdom showed me what mattered and what not to get worked up about.

My Advisor & Me

I'm incredibly thankful to have this man as my mentor and role model. As I continue my own growth, I know this is the kind of person I want to become. Bill often tells us that "there would never be any wars if everybody had just one friend in every country. This is what we're doing.” It's safe to say that I, along with the other fellows at my university and future ones not yet arrived, are well on our way to making this a reality. "It has been a Godsend. It has kept me involved and surrounded by the neatest, most grateful, fun, and loving students. And I, in turn, love every one of them dearly. We have had wonderful times together, and although I'm dreading their returning home, we are already making plans for my swing through Eastern Europe to visit all of them in their homes!" - Dr. William Rambin, retired Director of International Student Programs and Services, University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Always There for You Polina Popkova Russia, Elmhurst College, 2011-2012

Our advisor is the first person we meet in our host community. This person supports us, helps us, answers all our questions, and truly cares about our success. In short time they also become our best friend. For me, that person is Alice Niziolek. She is easily the kindest and most supportive person at my university, and upon my arrival, she did everything in order for me to feel as if it were home. In addition to making me feel welcomed and comfortable in my new home, Alice was instrumental in my cultural immersion as a Global UGRAD fellow. Many of my greatest experiences were ones proposed by her. One that comes to mind was during the middle of October when we boarded a river boat for a view of all the gorgeous and remarkable architecture Chicago had to offer. Moreover, Alice is in charge of many of the international events that are held at Elmhurst College. During “the week of foreign languages” an international poetry reading was held where I was able to read a piece from the “Eugine Onegin” by A.S. Pushkin. It was a wonderful opportunity to share my culture through literature. Additionally, Alice always does an amazing job of connecting international students with American students who are interested in having international friends. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and share your culture in the warm and inviting atmosphere that Alice creates. I'm thankful to Alice for everything that she does for me, and because of her, my experiences in the U.S. are invaluable and will last a lifetime.

More Than an Advisor Ulugbek Abduqayumov Uzbekistan, Southeast Communit y College, 2011-2012

As first impressions are often true, meeting my advisor Margarita Feyerherm for the first time I had the sense that she was a nice lady; after many months, my impression proved itself many times over. From simple time management issues to more complicated issues such as navigating American culture, she has been there every step of the way giving me advice and helping me to succeed. She was instrumental in helping me cope to this new culture and academic environment, and motivated me at times when I needed it most. Despite her numerous

responsibilities on campus she always found time to make sure I was OK. Since the first day I arrived on campus along with two other Global UGRAD fellows, she strived to create dynamic and engaging activities for us to participate in. In addition to providing us with a culturally enriching and rewarding environment, she was instrumental in supporting our search for community service opportunities, potential internships, and country presentation locations. And Margarita found time every week to reflect with us upon our experiences. Through all of this assistance she became more than just an advisor. She became a friend and mentor who was always ready to listen to my academic and personal problems. Never casting judgment on my choices, she always helped me reflect on the choices I made. Her patience, support, and kindness have given me an experience I never thought possible.

Like family Tamerlan Ibaev Russia, Augustana College, 2011-2012

Before I left my home in Russia, I received one last email from my advisor stating that he would meet me at the airport. At the time the U.S. seemed so distant, but before I knew it I was landing in South Dakota, meeting my advisors, and beginning my time as a Global UGRAD fellow. Since that arrival, and to this day, Ben Iverson and Donn Grinager have introduced me to the community of Augustana College and all the surrounding area has to offer. Before classes began, I had an amazing time visiting local museums, meeting the mayor of Sioux Falls, and talking with the local newspaper's main editor. They organized all of these great events. Another great thing was they immediately connected me with the university's Friendship Family program. For the three weeks before classes began I lived with a wonderful American family who made me feel right at home â&#x20AC;&#x201C; their homemade food, living in a basement as a true American student, and watching American sports games helped immerse me into American culture. Thanks to Ben and Donn I now have a second family. Finally, any time I need advice they are always there to give it to me. But instead of giving me the obvious answer, they offer me a variety of alternatives allowing me to make an informed decision from several different choices.

Throughout all my experiences, Ben and Donn have given me a multitude of perspectives that fully encompasses a true American life.

My Advisor & Me

Notes from UnderGrad

Spring 2012

Making a Difference Global UGRAD fellows and alumni are a strong net work of active people who help their communities. They design and implement development projects and per form communit y ser vice. They promote positive social change and raise awareness about impor tant social issues to those around them.

Raising Hope Anastasiia Dobrovolska

Making a Difference

Moldova, Troy Universit y, 2011-2012

Children's Harbor is nestled on the edge of the normally tranquil Lake Martin. A recreational and rehabilitation center for children with disabilities, it also supports the local children's hospital in providing free services and support to families and their children suffering from long term illnesses. On April 27th, 2011, a devastating tornado tore through Alexander City, AL and destroyed much of Children`s Harbor. Much work still needs to be completed so together with a group of students from Troy University, we took an active role in helping to repair the buildings and clean the surrounding area. Our main goal was to clean the territory immediately surrounding the buildings and build a new stone road leading up to the center. Only through hard work and collaborating together were we able to achieve our goal. Stone by stone we built this road. Stone by stone we helped rebuild this community. And stone by stone we built friendships based on giving and selflessness. Children will soon be able to come back to the Children`s Harbor and enjoy the beauty of the nature and the peacefulness Lake Martin provides. Volunteering for the Children`s Harbor in Alexander City showed me what happens when people come together and work towards a purpose greater than themselves. And through this volunteer experience, I realized that helping other people without seeking something in return makes for a most rewarding and complete life. I'm proud to be a participant of the Global UGRAD program, of the experiences I've had, and for the opportunity I've had to make an impact in my local community.

Physics is Phun Anton Dudko Ukraine, Universit y of Louisiana at Monroe, 2011-2012

Upon getting to know other Global UGRAD fellows, I soon realized I was one of the few fellows whose major was physics. This, along with my love for the field, filled me with a sense of responsibility to proudly represent my field of study and the Global UGRAD program.

Notes from UnderGrad

After arriving at my host institution of the University of Louisiana at Monroe, I soon realized that it wasn't really

oriented towards Physics either. With only four fulltime faculty members offering a couple of advanced courses, I saw a clear roadmap before me where the basic knowledge I brought from Ukraine would blend together with the U.S. academic culture! From the beginning I've done my best to act as a strong educational ambassador. I've eagerly diagramed and worked out in-class problems on the classroom's whiteboard, I've shared my studying habits with classmates, and I've strived to demonstrate to other students how important physics is even in completely unrelated majors. Inspired by a successful fall semester of informal activities, I decided to become more formally involved in the spring semester. I arranged for my

professor to become my internship supervisor, I took a directed study in relativity with another professor, and I volunteered as a physics and math tutor on campus. My internship has been most rewarding, with one component being an applied project on polymers in coordination with Tulane University in New Orleans. The project uses the lab situated on our campus, and because of this, I've been able to see how teamwork between two colleges is possible even at such long distances. In addition to seeing this teamwork in action, I've also been included on conference calls and email correspondence between my professor and his collaborators in New Orleans. I've experienced the full and complete process of academic research seeing one, initial idea culminate in a final peer reviewed paper. As much as I have met my goal in giving to this program, it has given me far more in return. This teamwork across cities has served as model for my own continued academic progress once I return home. The connections I have built over the last year with the ULM physics faculty are ones I will not only keep, but nurture. I will soon reintegrate into my home university in Ukraine, and doing so, I will bring Global UGRAD home with me.

Participating in the Global UGRAD program provided me the opportunity to experience a great many things. However, the one area that has come to highlight my experience in the U.S. is community service. During my time in the U.S., I realized how important it is to be a volunteer and support your local community, to be an active citizen in building it up. Since returning home I've had the opportunity to increase the spirit of volunteerism and the involvement of local youth in my home country of Georgia. Through several different alumni support grants and projects, I've been able to implement different projects working on cultural and civic integration. In particular I've had the privilege of advancing minority integration and mutual understanding amongst the various ethnic minorities populating the country. I have also extended my involvement in civic engagement through participation in the program “Joint Civic Education”. This program motivates and enables young adults in civic involvement, contributes to strengthening civil society, promotes active citizenship education, and develops NGO cooperation in the Caucasus. As an alumnus of the U.S. Department of State's Global UGRAD program, I represented IREX/Georgia in this program. I participated in this program because of the integration in values of “Joint Civic Education” and the Global

Civic Engagement Armani Gambaryan Georgia, Southeast Communit y College, 2009-2010

UGRAD program to strengthen civic engagement amongst youth and develop peace and mutual understanding. In the scope of this program the local IREX office hosted a short-term intern from the Educational Center “Intelligent Citizen” located in Ganja, Azerbaijan. In turn, I participated in a similar internship with the Institute for Democracy and Human Rights in Yerevan, Armenia. It was a truly incredible experience as I not only represented Georgia and the program, but I was able to work at a regional level to strengthen the cooperation amongst other organizations in the area. Working towards greater cultural understanding, conflict reformation, and the development of a dynamic civil society is beyond a doubt among the highest importance to the Caucasus region. With lessons learned from my time as a Global UGRAD fellow, I've been able to become an active participant in this process. It's truly an amazing honor.

Making a Difference

Notes from UnderGrad

Spring 2012

Notes from UnderGrad

Rights for All Armenuhi Ghazaryan

Making a Difference

Armenia, Universit y of Nor th Dakota, 2010-2011

During my time at the University of North Dakota I volunteered at the university's Women's Center. There I shared with my American colleagues the threats that Armenian women face in our country and the lengths and efforts of the great Armenian women who try to make changes. Partly from their efforts, I completed my time on the Global UGRAD program motivated and inspired to make changes in my country. Once I returned home I joined the Women's Resource Center in Armenia. In addition to providing English language instruction, I volunteer my time there helping at the center. My English class consists of women of various ages and I not only teach them English, but I share with them the fascinating experience I had on the Global UGRAD program. I told these women that this program provided me with a sense of freedom and independence I never before experienced. Throughout my English lessons, discussions, and presentations I also emphasized the importance of the protection of women's rights and women's abilities to play a full role in society. It soon became apparent the importance of sharing my experiences and my new found views not just among young people but among people of all ages. As a result I think we are one step closer to having a society which is empowered and ready to make an impact in important areas such as the recognition of women's rights. In the future I hope to continue this work, to work on more projects and programs that will advance greater understanding and protection of women's rights. I look forward to the day when I will see my ideas implemented and see a reduction in gender discrimination in Armenia.

Trainings for the Regions Kostiantyn Iakovliev Ukraine, Universit y of Missouri at St. Louis, 2007-2008

Although alumni seminars outside capital cities aren't extremely rare, they are rare enough that they still grab great attention. Regional seminars give opportunities to people who are often unable to travel to the capital and provide participants with

first-hand knowledge of alumni work happening throughout the rest of the country. In deciding to conduct a regional training on project management, alumni voted through Facebook to determine a location for the training. The city of Donetsk in

Eastern Ukraine was selected. The two-day training on using project work to realize community ideas took place in late January of 2012 and brought together fifteen U.S. State Department program alumni to develop their ideas. The training covered topics including community needs assessment, timeline creation, monitoring and evaluation, and disseminating key results to the community. I facilitated the training along with the help of experienced trainers from the Donetsk regional youth NGO “Noetikos” that I work with to realize youth initiatives. In order to simulate a real working environment, the workshop incorporated individual and group tasks, resourceful energizers, and interactive educational methods. Through research on the participants' level of subject awareness and fields of actions they wanted to undertake, the training was adjusted to participants' needs.

Interest in the training spread farther than just alumni, as the most popular regional TV channel came to publicize the event for its evening newscast. In interviews alumni shared how the program helped them to succeed personally and professionally by allowing them to gain exposure to other cultures and find rewarding experiences back home. The TV channel even included footage shot by an alumnus while in the U.S. giving a more intimate look into life on the Global UGRAD program. The newscast aired several times over the weekend and is still available online here. It serves as a wonderful introduction to the trainings provided to alumni and the great work alumni do upon their return home. Additionally, it serves to continue the popularization of exchange programs and encourages more people to actively take part in educational mobility.

Continuing Education Nargiz Guliyeva Azerbaijan, Graceland Universit y, 2011-2012

The founder of Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford once said, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress.

Working together is success.” My story of success in working with others began once I became involved in the organization Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE). This is the leading student organization at Graceland University and it immediately changed my perspective on how one university student can make the world a better place. SIFE mobilizes more than 50,000 active volunteers throughout the world, empowering their ideas and desires to improve the living standards of people in need. The SIFE teams at Graceland vary in focus, running the gamut from empowering the Zimbabwean educational system to reinforcing small businesses in Lamoni, Iowa. My participation with SIFE led to my involvement in the “Talent Searching” project. The project's aim is to inspire high school students from low income families to continue their education and go on to college. Last year SIFE worked with 131 high school seniors and 95 of them decided to continue their education. Although I'm a new team member on this project, I have already put forth ideas to make our work more effective. Additionally, through my involvement on this project, I feel a great sense of satisfaction that I am able to encourage and change someone's life. When I return home to Azerbaijan, I'm planning to join SIFE in Baku and share the valuable experience that I've gained from my time on the Global UGRAD program.

Making a Difference

Notes from UnderGrad

Spring 2012

Making a Difference

Mutual Understanding Nazik Myradova Turkmenistan, Lewis and Clark College, 2011-2012

Even though I had just arrived in the U.S. as a part of the Global UGRAD program, I was already thinking about what I could do when I'd return to Turkmenistan. I was planning my academic career, thinking about community development projects that I will implement, and wondering how I could transform my U.S. experience into something important and useful for the local community back home. At the same time, I wanted to make an impact in the U.S.; I was ready and willing to volunteer and looked forward to sharing my culture. Soon after arriving, however, I quickly realized I had an uphill battle to fight as few people I met had ever heard of Turkmenistan or Central Asia. Some asked where Turkmenistan is while others called Central Asia the “Stan region”. Even though this was disappointing, nothing I observed discouraged me from talking about my country and the region I come from. On the contrary, I started to think what I can do to serve as a cultural ambassador, to share Turkmenistan for some and bate curiosity of others in my local community. Eventually, I met people who were frank about not knowing anything about Turkmenistan, but who also were eager for me to share my culture with them. I can't describe how delighted I was to do so. At one of my first presentations in my dormitory I cooked plov, a national dish. The evening was a wonderful start to breaking the cultural ice. I would never have imagined how eager other students would be to learn about a new culture and explore a country they'd never heard of. This inspired me as I felt more comfortable telling other students about Turkmenistan and how it feels to come to the U.S. from Central Asia. Eventually, I went to the local middle school and talked about ancient Turkmen culture. When you talk about ancient culture to school kids aged 10 to 13 years old, you don't expect much feedback, but they impressed me with very smart questions on topics I never thought would be interesting for them. And finally, I held a dumpling evening and asked my guests to think about similarities and differences in the organization of American and Turkmen societies. Our discussion was highly

Notes from UnderGrad

engaging as we talked about needs and solutions that can be found for our local communities. After bridging this cultural gap and sharing my culture with others, I was ready to participate in a number of community service activities. In general, I found Americans to be heavily involved in volunteerism and I loved the idea of caring and giving back to the community. I enjoyed all of the activities I was a part of. Continuing upon my path of making an impact in the U.S., during the spring semester I interned with the Cash Oregon, Tax Aide program. Unlike in Central Asia, I learned that people in the U.S. must file their own taxes and often people need assistance with this. This is where Cash Oregon comes into the picture. It is an “organization committed to improving the financial health of low income working families and individuals.” And specifically within the Tax Aide program I helped to fill out tax returns and made sure that people understand the taxation system. I felt that I was doing something important and useful and that I was giving back to the community that hosted me for a whole year. I was doing something for the long-term development of these people and it showed me that I would indeed be able to make a big change and contribute significantly to my community. Finally, I participated in multiple college clubs and organizations. I took part in Model United Nations and joined Amnesty International. Through Model UN, I took part in conferences, representing my college and its diverse student body. Being a member of the Amnesty International board, I was able to discuss human rights issues in the U.S. and raise questions of international character that were not discussed before. And as an editor of the Meridian, Lewis & Clark's annual international affairs journal, I had a chance to bring a new perspective to the content. No matter where I was I tried my best to spread as much word about Turkmenistan as I could inside and outside of my campus. Despite my initial concerns and doubts, I was surrounded by people who were open minded, supportive, and willing to cooperate with me. Through them I found ways to be helpful and make lasting contributions that will bring long-term benefits to my local U.S. community. I'm eternally thankful to the Global UGRAD program for giving me such an opportunity to be here. Now, I really am thinking about my upcoming return home and I'm eagerly anticipating my arrival back to Turkmenistan. I feel it's going to be a terrific year of sharing ideas and knowledge that I've obtained from my time as a Global UGRAD fellow.

Alumni Updates Global UGRAD alumni grow professionally following their program experience. Alumni enter into public ser vice, succeed in the corporate world, and help their countries to develop socially and economically. This section highlights the personal and professional achievements of Global UGRAD alumni.

Telling the Stor y Levon Janpoladyan Armenia, Universit y of Mississippi, 2003-2004

I never thought I'd be enrolled in an exchange program and study in the U.S. for a year. As a sophomore student in Armenia in 2003, I applied to the FSA Undergraduate program only because I wanted to see what it was like applying for an exchange program. It was interesting completing all the paperwork, finding people

and had a very vague idea what I was going to do when I graduated. I supposed that I should do something connected with journalism, but exactly what I didn't know. Studying in the journalism department at the University of Mississippi soon gave me purpose and helped shaped what I wanted to do and where I wanted to be. I had a unique opportunity to work as a reporter for the campus television and later to conduct an internship with Fox News WHBQ TV channel in Memphis, Tennessee. It's difficult to express what a positive and beneficial experience it was. I can only say that after I took broadcast journalism classes in the university and after I was able to practice my skills at U.S. TV channels, it was clear for me that journalism was my future. I returned to Armenia after completing the program, but the energy charge I received in the U.S. was so immense that I soon transferred to Moscow State University in Russia to finish out my journalism studies. Returning home after graduation, I wanted to work at a TV company, but it was difficult to find a TV channel with a working structure that closely resembled the U.S. TV companies I worked for. After exploring all TV companies in Armenia I was nearly ready to give up this idea until I discovered CivilNet, a new online TV channel where both editorial policy and work atmosphere closely emulate U.S. standards.

who would write recommendation letters for me, and taking the needed tests. Being quite sure that I wouldn't be selected amongst all the other applicants, once my application was submitted I pretty much thought that was it. But then, I received a call from IREX and learned that I was a finalist.

Today, I'm working at CivilNet as an anchor and reporter, reading news on camera, filming reports, and producing two signature programs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one on environmental issues and the other on businesses in Armenia. I love what I do and I can only guess what I'd be doing now if I didn't participate in the FSA Undergraduate program. Most likely it would be something else, less enjoyable and not as impactful, but thankfully I'll never know thanks to the FSA Undergraduate program.

At the time I was studying journalism in the Russian-Armenian University

Alumni Updates

Notes from UnderGrad Winter 2011

Notes from UnderGrad

The Path to Success Alyser Bazarov Turkmenistan, Old Dominion Universit y, 2003-2004

Nearly ten years ago, I was asked during the FSA Undergraduate program interviews my plans for the next ten years. Recalling my answer, I said that I would be seeking a career path in the field of international relations and working for an international organization such as the United Nations (UN) or the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) based in Central Asia. This was the future I saw for myself and what has come to pass isn't too far apart from how I'd hoped things would turn out. One year of study and unparalleled experiences in the U.S. through the FSA Undergraduate program significantly helped me to grow professionally in pursuit of this future. In retrospect, the experience taught me basic skills to make independent decisions, fulfill my potential, overcome challenges, and build realistic plans for the future. At a personal level, I was able to successfully assimilate into American culture and make friends with fellow students, professors, and residents of the local community. Many years after returning home, my experience impacted my decision to seek a Master's degree in International Peace

Studies & Conflict Resolution from the University of Notre Dame. I was accepted to this program and in addition to my course work my studies included a six month empirical field research on the role of civil society in building sustainable peace in post-apartheid South Africa. These valuable experiences altogether have ultimately contributed to my ability to return home and start a career with the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat where I contribute to the expansion of commercial ties between the U.S. and Turkmenistan. My path over the last ten years can be traced directly back to that interview, and I hope that every new Global UGRAD fellow's experiences will be as transforming and enriching as mine have been.

Uniting Professionals Nikoloz Sumbadze

Georgia, Graceland Universit y, 2006-2007

Otar Antia

Georgia, Cochise College, 2007-2008

Alumni Updates

The gap between energy resources available in Georgia and professionals in this sector was the main reason for creation of the Association of Young Professionals in Energy of Georgia (AYPEG). Founded as a non-profit legal entity on January 17th, 2011 it was created by two UGRAD alumni, Nikoloz Sumbadze and Otar Antia. The goal of the association is the achievement of an economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable energy sector of Georgia through the active engagement of civil society at all levels. AYPEG has already implemented several projects. From May to June 2011, AYPEG organized a training program on the introduction to energy and energy policy. Training participants were not only from government institutions, but also from private companies working in Georgia's energy sector. Later in the fall, AYPEG organized a cognitive tour in the eastern region of Kakheti. Finally, at the end of 2011, AYPEG, in partnership with the International School of Economics' Policy Institute, finished the project â&#x20AC;&#x153;Assessment of the Research and Training Needs for Georgian Energy Sectorâ&#x20AC;?. This project involved interviews with representatives of companies operating in the energy sector of Georgia, both private and governmental, and large energy consumer companies. The aim of the project was to assess the main research objectives and training needs in the Georgian energy sector as well as to identify main issues of the sector. AYPEG looks forward to the upcoming year of expanding on this work and implementing new projects.

Winning is Giving Back Artem Avtandilov Russia, Universit y of Alabama in Huntsville, 2010-2011

After returning home to Russia I've had an opportunity to reinvent my university career by taking my unique experience gained in the U.S. while on the Global UGRAD program and apply it to opportunities here. For the second time in my life I won a Vladimir Potanin Charity fund Scholarship. This time, however, I presented a project based on my Global UGRAD experience to the Winter School in Sochi. My team, called “Feel FREE”, created a social project which will help international students in Kazan just as our advisors in the U.S. assisted us in our everyday life, cultural activities, and adaptation. I also presented my experience to my university community, sharing with others information on exchange opportunities and the American higher education system. One of my greatest achievements this year was receiving the scholarship of the President of Russia. This scholarship is awarded to outstanding students studying fields which are

considered the most important for modernizing the Russian economy. Students are selected based on their achievements in studies, participation in regional, national and international competitions, major scientific publications, and community activities. These have all been great honors for me and I believe that my Global UGRAD experiences helped me to achieve this.

Ministries of English Various UGRAD Alumni, Moldova The IREX/Moldova office, the UNDP Program “Transitory Support in consolidating the capacities of Moldova public administration”, and the Division of Human Resources Policy of the State Chancellery conducted the Conversational English Project for Moldovan government officials. The project was initiated in response to the Moldovan government's need to increase the English language ability of its employees, many of whom have an either elementary understanding of English or studied English some time ago and cannot converse professionally in English. The volunteers teaching on this project are seven alumni of the Global UGRAD program. Alumni were matched with Ministries focused on their area of specialization. The alumni met once per week with small groups and discussed, in English, a variety of topics. The meetings were not conducted as regular English classes with textbooks and grammar, but rather as informal conversational meetings where participants could engage in practical applications of English. The project started at the end of November and continued for a period of 3 months, and thanks in part to a large number of Global UGRAD alumni, an estimated 70 Ministry employees improved their English language skills. Margarita Ursu, the Chief Consultant at the Ministry of Culture remarked that the “course of conversational English was really useful, especially for a public servant. I work in the International Relations department, so every day I have to work with international documents and letters and meet representatives of different countries and organizations. English helps me to promote our country and to make people interested in who we are and what we do. Participating in the conversational English course is a good step on the way to becoming a better negotiator, promoter, etc. – abilities that a good specialist needs.”

Alumni Updates

Notes from UnderGrad

Spring 2012

Notes from UnderGrad Editorial Committee: Karene Grad Steiner, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Af fairs (ECA), US Department of State GradKE@state.gov

Chris Walters, International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX) cwalters@irex.org

Tova Pertman, International Research

Alumni Opportunities US Government sponsored exchange alumni are eligible to take part in various Bureau of Educational and Cultural Af fairs (ECA) supported training activities. In addition to events that support large audiences, individual alumni may apply for small grants that fund the organization of community service activities, conferences, publications, Internet-related activities, research trips, training programs, the creation of associations and other activities.

& Exchanges Board (IREX) tper tman@irex.org

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ECA Alumni Programming for Global Undergraduate Exchange Program Alumni State Alumni Web Site: The State Alumni website is an online community by and for alumni of US Government-sponsored exchange and training programs. The content of the site is updated every day and alumni are encouraged to submit information to the website for posting. Features of the website include: calendar of upcoming alumni events, job listings and career development information, searchable database of alumni and US host families who have registered at the site, grant opportunity listings, live online discussions, discussion forum, alumni news, alumni resume database, articles written by alumni, feedback form/online survey, live online guest speakers, photo gallery, and the Alumni ListServ. <ht tps://alumni.state.gov/> The UGRAD Alumni Small Grants Program: Alumni may apply to IREX for a grant of up to

$3,000 to conduct a community development or professional development project. Fundable project ideas include coordinating a community service project, launching a pilot program at an NGO or organizing a training program for professional colleagues and/or other alumni. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. <ht tp://w w w.irex.org/programs/asgp/index.asp>

Project Smile: Project Smile, administered by IREX, is a community development

program aimed at helping youth, the elderly and the disabled in Eurasia. Each grantee will receive up to $250 to perform public service in their home city. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. <ht tp://w w w.irex.org/programs/smile/index.asp> Alumni Events: IREX and the US Embassy organize monthly alumni events throughout

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

w w w.exchanges.state.gov

Eurasia. These events include workshops, conferences, trainings, roundtable discussions, happy hours, movie nights, seminars and lectures. Larger scale events include job fairs that allow alumni to have their resumes reviewed, learn about the current job market in their home country, and meet with potential employers. IREX local offices and the Embassies encourage alumni to actively participate in the development and implementation of such events.