Student Opportunities

Studying another language and culture is an exercise in connection — a means of building bonds with others around the world and across campus. Students of Russian at Notre Dame can engage in a variety of opportunities designed to enhance their language abilities and make meaningful connections here and beyond.

Form working on a book project with a faculty member to pursuing a yearlong independent senior thesis project, research opportunities abound. Our annual awards highlight outstanding seniors who have made significant contributions to the department or engage in exceptional scholarly work.

Looking to enhance your resume? Consider being a peer tutor through the CSLC or pursuing an internship teaching English in Russia or another Eastern European country through external resources such as Crossroads Eurasia or the Ukrainian Catholic University. Once you’ve secured an internship or volunteer opportunity abroad, you can apply for the European Internship & Service Grant through the Nanovic Institute for European Studies.

There are also many opportunities for you to contribute to Russian studies here at home. SRAS offers many internships and other activities for university students during the academic year, while the Russian American Foundation offers cultural ambassadorships and other leadership and networking opportunities. 

“Studying in the Russian program instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for the cultural traditions around the world. I learned how to explore culture, power, and history in everyday life, while sharpening skills in critical inquiry, problem solving, and public communication...Perhaps more impactful than the language skills in my career has been the analytical and evaluative skills I learned from the opportunities I had to discuss various political, social, philosophical, theological, and artistic aspects of Russian culture.”

Russian Club

Membership in the Russian Club is open to undergraduate and graduate students alike who are interested in all things Russian — including traveling and studying abroad in Russian-speaking countries, and enjoying good Eastern European and Eurasian food and drink.

The Russian Club, along with the Notre Dame Department of German and Russian Languages and Literatures, sponsors a number of social and cultural events throughout the academic year. Visit the Events page for information on upcoming events, like the annual trip to Chicago to see a Russian ballet or opera.

For more information, email us at russian@nd.edu.

Globally Engaged Citizens Program

Notre Dame’s Globally Engaged Citizens program rewards the learning and experiences you are already engaging in — and will stand out on your resume and show employers and graduate schools that you’re prepared to be a global citizen.

Students in any college or school can earn the certificate by taking two classes and participating in cultural activities on and off campus. You may already be well on your way to meeting the requirements. 

Earn your Globally Engaged Citizens Program

Summer Funding

The Meruelo Family Center for Career Development offers grants to students engaged in internships, research projects, or other experiences during the summer to cover the cost of housing, food, and transportation. Students with unpaid internships can receive up to $3,500, and paid interns are eligible for up to $1,000.

Learn more about summer funding