UNBC To Offer Unique Field School In Siberia
February 26, 2001 For Immediate Release
The University of Northern British Columbia is collaborating with Yakutsk State University of Russia to offer one of Canada's most unique summer field schools.
The University of Northern British Columbia is collaborating with Yakutsk State University of Russia to offer one of Canada's most unique summer field schools.
From mid-May to late August, up to 25 university students will be
in Siberia, gaining a first-hand knowledge of the peoples and cultures
of Russia's Far East. The program will include Russian language training,
courses in ethnography (the study of human culture), the opportunity
to participate in research projects, and a three-week stay in a remote
village where the primary activity is reindeer herding. Because the
course load will equal a full semester, students in the program will
be able to qualify for student loans. The estimated cost of the field
school is approximately $6,000, including return airfare.
"Siberia is a fascinating part of the world and the students
who join us for this field school will gain a profound understanding
of the geography, history, and culture of the region," says Michel
Bouchard, a UNBC Anthropology
professor who has organized the program. "Unlike other field schools
in BC, this one will be available to students who are still completing
their bachelor's degree."
The deadline for applications is April 2, 2001. Students signing up
for the field school should have previously taken at least two Anthropology
courses. Students are invited to apply online at www.unbc.ca/anthropology/fieldschool.
"UNBC clearly has its sights set on the North, and this field
school will increase understanding of another northern region,"
says prof. Bouchard. "It's our intention to offer this program
in other northern locales in the future: places such as Nunavut, Scandinavia,
or Alaska."