Year of Exchange in America for Russians YEAR | MEET-USA.COM Portal

Year of Exchange in America for Russians YEAR

01.10.2018
Contact the author

The Year of Exchange in America for Russians (YEAR) program provides outstanding Russian students, ages 18-20, a unique opportunity to study for one year at U.S. institutions of higher education, to engage with local communities in sustained and meaningful dialogue, to educate Americans about Russia’s history and culture, and to gain a new, nuanced understanding of American society. The program also aims to strengthen each participant’s English skills and subject knowledge. Participants take undergraduate level courses in their major fields of study, American studies, and a wide range of electives that offer the opportunity to explore new disciplines. They live either in campus dormitories or with American host families.

In addition to coursework, participants take part in various community service projects and conduct three professional interviews during the academic year. Interviews are conducted with professionals in fields relating to each student’s academic interests. They provide an opportunity for YEAR participants to learn more about the American workplace and the ways in which academic studies translate into professional experience.

YEAR participants are selected on the basis of academic excellence, English language proficiency, maturity, and ability to overcome the cultural challenges of living and studying in the U.S. for an academic year.  The program supports students with disabilities and provides placements that are fully prepared to engage with students with physical challenges to ensure their success on the program.

All program participants are required to return to Russia for at least two years after the completion of their studies.

The program is fully sponsored by the U.S. government, and includes:

  • International travel from home city to U.S. host college or university,
  • Tuition at U.S. university/college and living expenses,
  • Health insurance,
  • Arrival orientation,
  • On program support available 24 hours per day.