Middletown Rotary Club Enables a Delegation of Russians to Expand Their Knowledge About the American Educational System

The Middletown Rotary Club received a delegation of 12 Russian educators for fourteen days to introduce them to the US educational system. These guests were professors and presidents of universities from all over Russia.

The program organized by Bill Wasch, a member of the club, was very diverse. While focusing on the US educational system, delegates were also able to get a good impression of American culture and people. The English language skills of the Russians were fairly limited so that they had to depend on an interpreter who assisted in the whole program. Nevertheless, the Russians were able to communicate on their own with their guest families later in the evenings. It was clear that they all really enjoyed their visit.

After they spent a day each at Wesleyan University, Vinal Technical High School, Middletown Community College and Yale University all of them realized that American institutions are much better equipped. This led them to question how this system is financed and to wonder why alumni contribute such large amounts. However, they hope to apply the system of private financing to Russia, also realizing that the situation may not improve much in the next one or two years. But it is no secret that Russia has already made substantial economic progress thanks to the increasing contribution of educators like this delegation.

The trip to New York City and the CT State Police Labs were definitely the highlights of the program. The delegation enjoyed the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Circle Line Trip around Manhattan and the view from the top of the Empire State Building at night. At the State Police Lab Dr. Henry Lee gave a lecture and reported on his favorite cases; O.J. Simpson and Jon Benet Ramsey. Afterwards four delegates were chosen to go on a helicopter ride.

For me as a German student of economics who participated in the whole program and tried to support the club, this program with the Russians was a great experience and lots of fun, despite the work. I also recognized that Moscow is only a two hour flight from Berlin. Maybe I’ll go there for a visit some day. Opportunities to stay - I've got a dozen.

Stefan Lodde