Letters & voices
Full recommendations from a Yale alumnus who saw the Georgia program built from the ground up, Yale undergraduates from the 2025 summer session, a Vassar alumnus from the Batumi language program, host families from the Yale program, and a student who studies Russian with Anna across time zones.
“In spring 2022, when Yale’s Russian program sought to establish a new study experience in Georgia, I recommended Anna to build it from the ground up.”
“She found local partners, recruited teachers and guides, developed cultural tour itineraries — and devoted a full year on an unpaid basis before the program launched.”
She then served as teacher and local coordinator for three years. Exceptional dedication, resourcefulness, and professionalism — as both educator and organizer of a complex multi-year program.
“I started with almost nothing. Now I can hold basic conversations with my wife’s family entirely in Russian — and that has given me a deeper connection to my family.”
“Anna makes complex grammar feel approachable and creates a safe space where I never feel embarrassed making mistakes.”
He travels across time zones for work — and still found a rhythm of lessons, homework, and feedback that “goes well beyond what most tutors offer.”
“She will do great things with her own program and will provide an unforgettable experience.”
“She is dependable and was always easy to get hold of whenever we needed help or guidance. She is caring and a pleasure to work with.”
Emely took part in the 2025 Yale summer Russian Learning program coordinated by Anna — organized, always on top of events and spontaneous activities, and ready to help others gain skills for a lifetime.
“Anna was an amazing program coordinator during my time in Georgia and I happily recommend her.”
“She helped me build my confidence, especially when speaking Russian outside of an academic context.”
Camille was in the 2025 Yale Study Abroad in Georgia program with Anna as resident director — welcoming from day one, organizing excursions like Svaneti and Georgian dance, and patient with everyday Russian practice.
“I would gladly recommend her to anyone considering studying Russian with her.”
“There is a tremendous difference between knowing Russian in a classroom and having the confidence to use it in the real world, and Anna helped bridge that gap.”
Caleb studied Russian on a program in Batumi. Anna was one of those accompanying the group: museums, monasteries, cities, and Georgian food — and Russian spoken outside the classroom.
Letters from hosts#
Elena Chunakova and the Troyanov family — on matching students, daily life, and Anna’s support during Yale’s summer program.
“My family and I have worked with Anna since 2023 as part of Yale University’s summer program.”
“The students who stayed with me settled in quickly — we built warm, trusting relationships. We are still in touch with two of them.”
When questions or everyday issues came up, they were resolved quickly. Anna was always available — and I can recommend her without hesitation for hosting and supporting international students.
“Our family has worked with Anna since 2023 as part of Yale University’s summer program. Over that time we have hosted four students.”
“We especially value how carefully Anna matches students — she takes into account both the young people’s interests and what works for the host family.”
Anna stays available throughout the stay. When questions or everyday situations arise, she responds quickly and helps find a solution — we recommend her with confidence as a reliable coordinator.