And end...

The end. Writing this now, it's hard to really comprehend. A program like this both takes a lot from you and, of course, gives you something back, but it may take time to see all the impacts.

Our final dinner, which was held two weeks ago today, was an appropriately festive way to mark the end of formal instruction at ALTGPU and to celebrate the work of all our Russian colleagues which made this program a success. There was, of course, plenty of excellent food and drink, but what made it special was the opportunity to toast friends new and old and reflect on the ways all the participants advanced their understanding of Russia during the program.

And what makes it even more satisfying is that we know a 2016 seminar will take place, giving us the opportunity to improve the program and introduce the Altai region to another cohort of students and educators.