The first Russian Online New Year in KubSU
International students of the preparatory department of Kuban State University selebrated New Year in Russian style. The holiday was held via the Internet – online – in the already familiar format for everyone. Despite the huge distance – the students were not only in different cities, but also in different countries and on different continents – everyone was immersed in the magical atmosphere of the holiday.
According to Russian traditions, Father Frost and the Snow Maiden "came" to the event. However, this time Father Frost did not entertain the guests, but accepted congratulations himself and watched and listened to with interest the performances prepared for him and the congratulations of 16 groups that united future students from 40 countries of the world. The Snow Maiden also did not waste time in vain and went around the entire university in search of a suitable faculty for her. Therefore, all participants were able not only to have chance to learn the traditions of the New Year in Russia, but also to get acquainted remotely with all the faculties and institutes of Kuban State University.
The students of the preparatory department told how they usually celebrated New Year in their countries. They walked through the central streets of their cities in advance and prepared amazing videos from different parts of the world; they also pleased Father Frost with poems, songs, numerous congratulations and even playing the saxophone.
The Director of International Affairs Department of the University Galina Nikolaevna Govorova and the Director of the International Cultural and Educational Centre Diana Pavlovna Katrchieva congratulated the students and teachers. They wished everyone health, joy and fulfilment of wishes. After the end of the holiday, the listeners shared their emotions. Chavez Pablo from Argentina wrote: "Thank you all for such a wonderful evening! I was very happy to celebrate the New Year (even remotely) together with my lovely University. I hope that the quarantine will end soon, and I will be able to come to Russia. Happy New Year to all!" Al-Abedi Murtada from Iraq noted: "I was glad to see Father Frost along with Snow Maiden. It was interesting to see what my friends, the students from other groups, had prepared. Thanks to the quiz, I learned a few new words. Thank you very much! I wish everyone success and happiness!"
