Russian at UH Student Spotlight: Meet Ethan

Jessica Diehl
Feb 7, 2019
2 min read

The Russian program at the University of Hawaii is filled with people from all over the United Stated, even all over the world. Every person brings such a unique perspective and adds dimension to the program. Among my classmates, there are a multitude of different reasons for pursuing Russian, different skill-sets when it comes to learning the language, and a variety of post-graduate goals. Every month, I will interview a student in the Russian program and share some of their own personal story: Why they chose Russian, studying advice, what they plan on doing once they graduate, their other hobbies & interests, and what they recommend doing while living in Hawaii.

February 2019: Meet Ethan!

Ethan is currently a double major in Russian and Psychology.

1. Why Russian?

Ethan’s interest in Russian piqued when he was working in California- “Two years ago, I was working in San Francisco, when I went to a job symposium. Russian was the #1 requested language, and that’s when I started really thinking about it.” He realized that the language was extremely marketable, not just for government or military work, but also in the private sector, for businesses looking to expand abroad. Ethan started taking Russian classes, and soon decided that he would make Russian his major. He adds, “Russia has a really interesting culture- it’s different from the U.S.- and that makes it even more interesting to learn about.”

2. What is your favorite memory in the Russian program so far?

Last semester, the Russian Club hosted a picnic at Paradise Palms, where students and faculty made traditional Russian dishes and brought them in for everyone to share. There was a huge turn-out for the event and tons of delicious food to sample. This club meeting was Ethan’s favorite- “I got the opportunity to try so many different Russian dishes that I’ve never tried before- and free food is always good too.” =)

3. What advice would you give other RUS 101 students?

“I think showing up for class with a clear and focused mind- ready to learn and 100% focused-

is the most important thing.”

4. How do you plan to use your Russian knowledge once you graduate?

“I have a lot of different ideas. I hope to teach English abroad (possibly in Russia), or to continue studying Russian in a study-abroad program. I really hope to use it in my professional life, my options are open. Personally, I’m also interested in visiting historical sites and museums [that pertain to Russian culture].”