Staff Spotlight: Ilya Ipatov, Bilingual Assistant, School of Russian
Academic Year Position: Resident Coordinator, Middlebury Russian Program in Kazakhstan
Hometown: Arkhangelsk, Russia
Program: 8-week Kathryn Wasserman Davis School of Russian
Summers worked at the Language Schools: 9
As a bilingual assistant, Ilya’s duties include media support, team-building and event management.
What do you like the most about working at the School of Russian?
There are a lot of people who work and have fun together, who are connected with one idea and goal, who help each other and take care of each other. It’s awesome!
The detailed approach to planning and organization of activities, as well as the friendly, supportive and cheerful attitude of the staff and students keep me in the field. I am passionate about communicating and sharing Russophone culture through providing first-hand experience to students.
What is one of your all-time favorite moments/events at the School of Russian?
I adore the beginning of the Program when old friends and colleagues of mine come to campus. This is a moment of getting together.
In addition to that, I like Saturdays during the summer program. Usually, our team plays soccer in the morning, then I have brunch and tell some exciting facts about some regions of Russia during “The travelers’ club”. After the club I have some free time for some rest, and in the evening time, there is a movie night or a party.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
I love the whole campus and it’s impossible to choose one favorite spot.
Why should everyone come to Middlebury’s School of Russian to learn Russian?
Because of the unique experience and opportunity to explore Russophone culture through the language, songs, dances, stage acting, reading literature, watching movies and so on.
Co-curricular Activities at the School of Russian, Summer 2024
The Bilingual Assistants, along with School of Russian faculty members, lead co-curricular activities each summer.
What are some of your jobs on campus?
Our team of bilingual assistants organizes events weekly. We take pictures and videos, we run clubs, we support the students emotionally. Our team helps to solve technical issues, and, of course, we unpack and pack all of the school’s supplies before and after the program.
Our director calls us “the glue” that links the administration, the students and the professors.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Being useful in any aspect that I’m able at that particular moment.
What have you learned from the students/staff at the School of Russian?
I learned that sometimes people are shy to ask for help and in that case it’s good to ask them by myself in advance.
Applications for the Summer 2025 session of our Kathryn Wasserman Davis School of Russian open on November 1.
Gather your materials to apply for our 8-week Immersion, Graduate Programs, Online Refresher, Advanced Online, and NEW Heritage Program today.