Syracuse University came out on top at the New York State Russian Language Competition, held last weekend on campus. Samantha Costello, a freshman majoring in Russian language, literature and culture, placed first overall. Elin Wiklund, a sophomore majoring in international relations, placed third overall.
Other SU participants were Marie Morrow and Tyler Mills, both international relations majors from the Class of 2013.
“It was amazing to connect with so many students from all over the state and to bond over our mutual affinity for Russian language and culture,” says Costello, one of nearly 30 students who competed in poetry recitation, spontaneous speaking, reading and grammar. “Just the act of reciting and conversing with Russian professors and with other students provided a wealth of knowledge.”
Student participants came from across the state: SU, Binghamton University, Hamilton College, Union College, Hobart & William Smith Colleges and the U.S. Military Academy.
Organizers Erika Haber, Zofia Sztechmiler and Gerald Greenberg, instructors in SU’s Russian Language Program, agree that the event is a fun way to network with other students. “While nervous going into the competition, our students enjoyed themselves and came away from the event motivated and eager to continue their Russian studies in our program,” says Haber.
Wiklund echoes these sentiments: “Not only did my preparation help me with the competition, but also it improved my Russian skills in general. Plus, I made some new friends in the process.”
Each year, the New York State Russian Language Competition travels from campus to campus, highlighting the best among first- and second-year language students. “It was neat to see how much I’ve progressed with Russian,” recalls Mills, who hopes to compete again next year.
At SU, the competition was presented in conjunction with the Department of Languages, Literatures and Linguistics (LLL), which is housed in The College of Arts and Sciences and promotes the study of languages, literature and culture, and language theory.
One of the most eminent image makers and social commentators in America, University Artist in Residence at Syracuse University Carrie Mae Weems returns to the Park Avenue Armory in New York City this fall with a major new commission and…
Syracuse Stage celebrates the holidays with the multi-award musical treat “Matilda The Musical,” Nov. 19-Jan. 2. The production is co-produced with the Syracuse University Department of Drama. With music and lyrics by Australian comedian and songwriter Tim Minchin and based…
After more than 40 years as a member of the Syracuse University community, artist and longtime arts leader Jeff Hoone has announced his retirement. An award-winning artist, Hoone most recently served as executive director of the University’s Coalition of Museum…
A student team from the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ course DES 204: Creative Problem Solving in the School of Design won a silver award in the Creative Conscious Competition, an international platform that allows students to compete by…
“Challenge and Opportunity,” an exhibition showcasing Syracuse University’s innovation in architecture education during the COVID-19 pandemic, opened Oct. 23 at the Bamboo Art Center in Shanghai. Organized by the School of Architecture in cooperation with Tontsen Architecture Design in Shanghai,…
If you need help with your subscription, contact sunews@syr.edu.
