18.09.2006
We asked professors what advice they would give collegues contemplating leading a group of students to Russia. This is what they had to offer: Consider the ratio of adults to students carefully, and realize that no matter how many helpers you have, keeping an eye on over a dozen people is nerve-wracking, especially in crowded areas like the metro. To keep yourself engaged, plan at least a few activities where you are NOT the guide, so you can slip off to pursue your own interests, see friends, or just relax and recover. Don't over-pack days: college students with little background in Russia can seldom do two large programs a day. One is better, ending as early as possible. Students usually want time to "stroll." Some shop, and some just like to get a feel for the city. Plan time for this. Never travel without both researching the liability for you and school, and having students and parents sign and notarize a comprehensive waiver and hold harmless. Ask your school’s counsel to look over this document. Consider requiring courses in order to participate, especially if there is a lot of interest. Often ambivalent students are either "hooked" or re-motivated after a trip to Russia. Be sure to take a least one train trip. Many American students have never set foot on a train, so it's a novel and wonderful experience for them. The night train between St. Petersburg and Moscow is a convenient way to do this without straining the itinerary. Be careful of offering options. Most students lack the background to say, "I really want to see the Tretyakovskaya," so you need to bear that in mind and take control. Obviously, you should plan a balanced program that appeals to the majority, but don’t go overboard asking students whether they approve. Make sure to get evaluations, in some form, from students after the trip. Note carefully what worked and what didn’t, and any changes in logistics that should be made in the future.
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