International Seminar Day Two - Tour of Historical Sites in Moscow and Ballet

22 years ago Russia was a destination that U.S. citizens would not have considered visiting. Today, Class 41 embarked on a journey and case study that took us deep into the former communist nation,  it's government, religion and people. It became evident, early on, that this was going to be a history lesson in extremes. Weather, power, religion and government all play major factors in the leadership lessons we were introduced to in our first adventure.

Getting to know Eastern Europe started with a breakfast buffet that set the tone for our international seminar in Russia. While some foods looked similar, they definitely have their own unique Russian flavor. This theme played out throughout the day in many of our experiences. Moscow looks like a European city in many ways, but the history of it's development and the people who live here are as exotic as it's winter is to a Californian.

At 8 a.m. Moscow time, 12 hours ahead of California, the class loaded the bus to sunshine, but nearly  minus 10 degree fahrenheit weather. This was a welcome wake-up for the jet lagged fellows who traveled from California the previous day.

With snow and ice all-around the bus and headed for the center of town. We began the day with orientation that introduced the class to some of Moscow's historical sites. Starting with Red Square and the Kremlin, the class learned about the evolution of the governments infrastructure and how revolution and war impacted it's growth. All were impressed by the massive buildings and well fortified walls in addition to the government built housing that was provided free of charge for many years in the early to mid 1900's.

Next the fellows made an in-depth visit to the more than 5 significant Russian Orthodox churches that were constructed on the grounds of Red Square and the Kremlin. The most recognizable, St. Basil Cathedral, stands at the end of the square to the east of the Kremlin. The cathedral holds extravagant architectural detail and a significant collection of artifacts as do the other churches within the area. Preserved throughout the persecution of religion during the communists government's rule, the Russian followers remained devout. Today the citizens and Russian Orthodoxy are alive and ever growing, evident in the resurrection of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior on its original grounds. Important to the development of the nation, religion, made strong contributions in both it's presence and it's absence within society and policy.

In addition to visiting many historical sites the class also experienced  "Swan Lake" at the Stanislavsky Musical theater. Tchaikovsky's most famous ballet proved to be a significant leadership lesson from the aspect of exposing the class to the  preservation of arts and the strong desire of the Russian citizens to be the very best in every aspect of life.

In today's journey the class received a significant amount of information about the history, culture and people of Russia that will require much reflection. The lessons learned today will begin a foundation that will shape our entire International Seminar. In the days ahead, we look forward to referencing the materials and leadership lessons learned on our first experiences in Moscow.

Ali Elhassan
David Shabazian
Steven Knudsen
Photos by: Steven Knudsen