DEPARTMENT OF SLAVIC LANGUAGES AND LITERATURES

My name is Kylie Callender and I am a senior double majoring in Slavic Studies (Russian Language, Literature, and Culture) and History, with a minor in Fine Art. I am from Northern Virginia, and grew an interest in studying Slavic after falling in love with the works of Dostoevsky. My favorite class was Slavic 255: Queer East/Central Europe, which was taught by both Prof. Wilczewski and Prof. DeSocio, as it helped explain the interconnectedness of East and Central Europe as our modern concepts and practices of sexuality were birthed. In addition to being on the SAB for the Slavic Department, I am also a member of NU Army ROTC and conduct research on the impact of corruption on Central Asian countries. In my free time, I enjoy running, cooking, and practicing jiu jitsu. After I graduate, I will become a commissioned officer and I hope to be stationed in Asia.

My name is Clayton Michaels and I am a junior double majoring in Slavic Studies (concentration in Russian and East European Studies), and International Studies (concentration in Political Economy) with a minor in Economics. I was born in California but was raised in Moscow. With my background living in Russia for 13 years, speaking Russian fluently, and having a deep connection to East Europe through my father’s Ukrainian heritage, I knew that I wanted to continue studying Russian. I could easily list all my Slavic courses as my favorite but my absolute favorite class in the Slavic Department so far has been Slavic 222: Language, Politics and Identity with Professor Elliott where I was able to learn more about the intricacies of the Balkan regions, their religious and linguistic similarities and differences, and why it is such a tumultuous region. As well as being a Slavic SAB representative, I am also the Vice-President of the Russian Culture Club, and I am involved with organizations such as The World Affairs Group, and the Northwestern Marching and Basketball Bands. In my free time I like to take aerial photos of pretty much anything, trying new coffee shops and listening to music. One day, I hope to work internationally where I can use my Russian skills.