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Respecting Russian Customs and Traditions. How to do it?

Cracking the Culture Code: A Friendly Guide to Russian Customs for Future Doctors

 

Hi there, future doc! So, you're off to this stunningly adventurous ride: studying medicine in Russia! How exciting is that?! You're going to receive a great education, get to know cool people, and learn about a culture like no other. But come on, moving to a new country is a little intimidating, isn't it? So I figured I'd share with you some tips on learning and understanding Russian traditions. Use it as your "cheat sheet" for dealing with the cultural scene.

 

Listen, it's not about being polite; it's about opening doors, building bridges, and making the most out of your time in Russia. You're not just a student; you're kind of an ambassador for your home country. If you show that you care about and respect Russian culture, that will go far. So, let's get started!

 

Why Bother? The Perks of Respecting Russian Culture:

 

•   Building Real Connections: It's not all about greeting them with a "hello." Being interested in Russian traditions will help you connect with your peers, teachers, and even people you meet in the city. Russians value honesty, so being respectful is a great way to build trust.

•   Don't Get That Awkward Moment (or Insult!): There is something called culture clash! The familiarity with the custom keeps you from unintentionally offending someone or facing a social boo-boo. Trust me, you'll feel so much easier handling people.

•   Level Up Your Experience: Seriously, immersing yourself in the Russian culture will add so much to your whole experience. You'll have so much more to appreciate about Russia's history, art, music, and lifestyle. And it just is fun!

•   Communicate Better = Learn Better: If you understand cultural nuances, you'll be better at communicating. You'll pick up on the nonverbal cues and avoid misunderstandings that could get in your way of studying or of relationships.

 

Alright, So What Should I Know?

 

These are some of the key areas to watch out for in order to really "get" Russian culture:

 

•   Greetings: The Handshake is King (Mostly): Handshakes are the universal greeting, especially between men. Greet someone with eye contact – it's genuine. If you're meeting someone for the first time, it's polite to greet them with their first name and patronymic (that is, their middle name, which was derived from the name of their father). Do not immediately reach for calling them by their first name alone unless they welcome it.

•   Hospitality: Get Ready to be Wowed (and Bring a Gift!): Russians are renowned for their incredible hospitality. If you are invited into somebody's home, it is customary to bring a little present – flowers (always an odd number, please!), chocolates, or something small from your own country. And do not forget to take off your shoes at the door!

•   Table Manners: Watch Your Step: Table manners are important. Place your hands on the table (but not your elbows!), and wait until everyone has been served before you start eating. If someone offers you a drink, it's polite to accept (even if it's just a small amount!). Toasting is a big deal, especially on special occasions.

•   Language: A Little Russian Goes a Long Way: Even if you're studying in English, learning a few key Russian phrases will earn you big brownie points. "Здравствуйте" (Zdravstvuyte – Hello) and "Спасибо" (Spasibo – Thank you) are a good place to start.

•   Personal Space: Stand a Little Closer: Russians stand slightly closer than people in some other cultures. It's not unusual to be standing in someone's personal space while having a conversation with them.

•   Public Behavior: Respect the Space: Be polite with your behavior in public places. Avoid being too loud and obtrusive, particularly in quiet spaces like libraries or museums.

•   Respecting Elders: It's a Big Deal: Older people are highly respected in Russia. Be accommodating if they need your assistance, and be polite and respectful when addressing them.

•   Dress Code: Dress the Part: While you can dress casually most of the time, don't forget to dress up, especially in formal situations or in religious places.

•   Holidays: Celebrate Like a Russian: Discover Russian holidays and celebrations. Going to these events is a great way to see the culture firsthand. Don't forget that some Orthodox holidays occur on dates different from their Western equivalents.

•   Religious Sites: Be Respectful: Dress modestly (cover your shoulders and head, and wear long sleeves and pants or a long skirt) when you go to churches or monasteries. Women should cover their heads with a scarf. Be quiet and don't take pictures or engage in loud talking.

 

How to Learn More (Because Google Can't Teach You Everything):

 

•   Befriend Russian Students and Faculty: They are your greatest treasure! Ask them questions, research them, and learn from what they have learned.

•   Read, Read, Read!: Russian culture has such great books and articles written on it. Read up!

•   Netflix and Learn? Yes, Please!: Online streaming of Russian movies and shows is an interactive and entertaining experience to get an idea of Russian culture.

•   Get Out There!: Go to Russian concerts, theatrical performances, and festivals. Sink into the culture!

•   Pay Attention: Just observe! Observe how people engage with one another and attempt to learn the unstated rules.

 

The Most Important Tips:

 

•   Be Open-Minded: Approach Russia willing to learn and try new things.

•   Be Respectful: Be sure to treat people around you with courtesy and respect.

•   Be Patient: Acquiring information on a foreign culture isn't something one wakes up a superhero over! Don't lose hope if you fumble!

•   Ask Questions! If you have questions on a certain point, don't remain unsure! Always better to know than assume!.

 

By taking the extra effort to learn and enjoy Russian customs, you'll not only have a better time as an MBBS student, but you'll also create lasting friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. So, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in this rich and fascinating culture, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget!

 

SIMPLE ADMISSION PROCESS

No hefty donations, no entrance exams, no hassle for documentation just your dream MBBS study and you. RUS OVERSEAS does everything for you from scratch. We make sure you don’t have to do rounds of rotation and get fed up with the process of admission. From beginning to end, we are with you. 

 

THE PROCESS

Eligibility: 

• 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC) in Class 12.
• Minimum 17 years by December 31 of the admission year.
•   NEET Qualification: Mandatory for Indian students.

 

Invitation letter: 

After RUS OVERSEAS submits your documents in the university. The university issues you an invitation letter. 

 

Visa process: 

Once the invitation letter arrives. The company will start your visa processing and in a few days you will be on the plane to Russia. 

HOW RUS OVERSEAS HELPS YOU IN YOUR JOURNEY

RUS OVERSEAS has the experience of more than a decade. Our team is supportive and cares for the students wholeheartedly. We are available 24/7. Your one stop solution for MBBS abroad is us. We at RUS OVERSEAS will never disappoint any student or parent in their fulfilling journey with us.

 

CONTACT US

Phone: +91 9560533703

Email:  info@rusoverseas.com