I had heard of Maymesters before, but never really considered going on one until I received an email detailing the Maymester in Russia. I remember sitting at Cafe Coco alone, waiting on a friend to arrive, while reading over information from past years. I immediately recognized this as something I would love to do, but most likely never would get the chance to experience. It felt sort of similar to all those times I scrolled through travel blogs and beautiful travel locales dreaming of when I'd be able to share that type of thing myself. But this opportunity included the chance to study what I was falling in love with (after fostering fascination for quite a while) at the time: Russian language, culture, and history.
Next thing I knew, I started pitching the idea to my parents. The response? "Never." Yet, the more I was exposed to the idea through professors and class, the more stubborn I got about the entire thing. I didn't realize that by actually filling out the application I would be paving the way for something so grand. I don't think my parents or me actually expected I would get to go between circumstance and funding. Maybe that's why they seemed so nonchalant about me sending in the application. Little have they learned from my stubborn determination in past instances.
Suddenly, I had this opportunity sitting in front of me. Practically tangible. Forms were turned in. Applications approved. Absolutely blessed with funding.
None of it seemed like it would actually happen until I got a flight confirmation email. There was a scheduled date - May 12th - that I would be leaving the continent for the first time; and not to go to the United Kingdom or France with my family to sight-see and leech off of tourist culture, but to delve into what makes Russia Russian, and what that even means (not to mention the integration of community service - something very near and dear to my heart). All the years spent with the Russian keyboard programmed on my phone and not only could I finally use it to some extent after studying nearly two semesters - but I would be somewhere where that alphabet surrounded me.
It wasn't the easiest process, but everything came together. Preparing for somewhere like Russia wasn't as difficult as one may think. Yes, I did need to apply for and be granted a VISA. No, none of my devices seemed to be hacked in doing so. Yes, I did have to pack for slightly unpredictable weather. No, I didn't need to pack a parka and six large wool scarves. Yes, I did bring pepper spray. No! I never even thought of using it - including not on bears that weren't even seen.