Perspectives of Russian Youth

When Russia comes to mind, one cannot help but think of the former attitude of the Soviet Union. This established system of beliefs is still held in high regard by many citizens, and with the introduction of democracy into the country many middle-aged Russians are finding it difficult to adjust to a more modern way of thinking. But what about the next generation of Russians? What will the future hold for them? And what do they think about all that is going on around them? In "The New Russia," this point is debated.

"The New Russia." (elibrary)
http://elibrary.bigchalk.com/libweb/curriculum/do/document?set=search&groupid=1&requestid=lib_standard&resultid=26&edition=&ts=489C792E1A2FEAA60D7C7609C7642D0C_1179158169018&urn=urn%3Abigchalk%3AUS%3BBCLib%3Bdocument%3B91026053

The article begins by discussing the school lives of Russian teenagers. They attend a grade 1-11 school with about 1200 students total. Due to increased security because of war and terrorist threats, it would not be uncommon to find guards near the school. However, despite this, education remains to be a top priority in Russia. The students are intelligent, have individual hopes and dreams, and seem to live in a manner typical of any other young adult. "Alex, who plays in a rock band with friends, has written his own song lyrics-in English. Some day he wants to travel the world as a foreign correspondent."

Although the previous aims of the Soviet Union were to restrict the amount of influence Russian recieves from the outside world, at this point in time it seems to be the complete opposite. Many Russian teenagers, such as Alex and Anya from the article, are perfectly aware of the possibilities their future has. "They are not shy at all about showing off their English skills. Anya and Alex know that speaking a foreign language will give them opportunities of which their parents could only have dreamed."

Based on "A New Russia," by Lucian Kim, it is apparent that Russia may soon be drastically different from what it once was in the Soviet Union. With Russian youth being more highly educated, it is doubtful that they haven't the slightest idea about where the country is headed. With this knowledge, it is hopeful that Russian teenagers will be able to put an end to the negative aspects of the current government and ensure a positive future for the next generation of their people.
(A.H)