Kate Willison

Kate Willison, 26, Canada. Subject: English.

My main intention with the lessons was to share the importance of learning a foreign language, and I am optimistic that there was interest in some of the kids. It is difficult to say, however, the exact impact that the students felt. Some students were able to practice known vocabulary, and hopefully the very beginners learned some new words. Keeping in mind that it is not really possible to improve a person’s language level in 2-3 lessons, in addition to the fact that some lessons were not successful, in part due to mixed levels, I think the majority of lessons were fun.

- What was so different from what I expected?

- I do my best to go into completely new situations with no expectations; this is something that I am always working on, but expectations nevertheless abound.  The main thing that surprised me was the enthusiastic and sometimes well-intended but overbearing support of the Mikhaylovka administration. I suppose the tensions and lack of communication that came about among the team of volunteers.

- What was the most difficult part?

1. Having conflict amongst ourselves.
2. Seeing systemic alcoholism (which isn’t new for me, but always hard).

- What was the easiest part?

- Spending time with my host family, having unorganized time.

- Why should I go to Buryatia and make VSS 2010?

1. You will have an amazing chance to be in a stunning, untouched environment, and appreciate the simplicity of a pastoral life.
2. You will have a unique chance to take in Buryat culture and language, which you probably couldn’t find in the city.
3. Personal growth, because for sure you will face some challenges.

- Why should not I go to Buryatia and make VSS 2010?

- If you are scared of being in an environment where you don’t understand what is going on all the time, or you think it would be too challenging.

- What should I be ready for?

1. Meat: My digestive system did get tired of eating meat all the time in the end, but it was not as troublesome as I thought it might be, and buuzy are delicious. Plus, being fed too much.
2. Things not being as organized as you are used to at home, waiting for people to show up.
3. Not having personal space.

- What have I learned by doing VSS 2009?

1. The importance of communication, and how communication breakdowns can be a challenge to resolve.
2. Organization and intercultural communication.
3. About the beautiful traditions and culture of the Buryat people.

If you have questions to Kate Willison, you can contact her at: kwilliso AT dal DOT ca