You might be a Russian Studies student who is:

1. Preparing for a year abroad in a Russian-speaking destination and wants to make the most of it from the start

2. Already abroad, but finding yourself stuck in an English-speaking bubble outside class

You might recognise yourself in some of the following:

• You’ve done the academic work, but you have a mental block around speaking Russian

• You struggle to understand native speakers, and hope it will somehow click on its own

• You don’t have a clear, realistic plan for turning study into real communication

• You care about doing well in your degree, in the region, and in the opportunities this year could open up

• You want to integrate locally, but you’re unsure what everyday life will actually look like

I help Russian Studies students turn their academic study into practical, usable Russian - so they can arrive abroad prepared, confident, and ready to take part in everyday life.

Over five months, Steppe with Confidence gives you a clear structure and steady support. Instead of trying to prepare for everything at once, you focus on what actually matters, in the order you’ll need it.

By the time you leave for your year abroad destination, you will:

• follow native speakers more easily and respond appropriately in everyday conversations

• understand how daily life works, culturally and socially

• know how to handle over 20 essential situations without freezing or avoiding them

That includes practical moments like avoiding taxi scammers, buying a SIM card, finding a flat, ordering food, or even interacting in the classroom.

This is all connected to a bigger goal: helping you connect, integrate and properly grow during your year abroad.

You don’t need to be at C2 level or an unapologetic extravert.

You don’t need to be fearless. 

You just need a supportive structure, realistic expectations, and the willingness to show up consistently.

Over the  5-month programme, you will:

• weekly live support

• situation-based preparation

• practical cultural guidance

• manageable pacing alongside your degree

By the time you get on the plane, you won’t be wondering how you’ll cope. You’ll already know how to get started. You’ll arrive with the confidence to make the most of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, your year abroad.