2012-01-30 Back Into the Swing of Things

I, now practically an assistant member of the staff, helped give the tour of Saint Petersburg to the new students. It is surreal to be around without the majority of friends I have come to know. Yet, what happens now is the opportunity to become friends with even more people. 

Still so much left of the city to see, but it is too cold (despite my local Russian friends saying this is a very tame winter) to go very far. I officially have tickets to the February 15th Champions League soccer game between Zenit Saint Petersburg and Benfica. Be thrilled for me, and send me warm thoughts, it could quite possibly be the coldest game of soccer to ever be played in Europe. 

Classes have started, and I continue struggle with my poor Russian knowledge, though it is strange in the situations outside of class that these new uncomfortable students, with more years of language than myself, depending on me for interactions with Russians. I have helped with cashiers, Metro workers, ticket booths, store employees, waiters, and even passing locals. A great boost to my confidence.