No subject

[A Singleton]

On the subject of enrollments and retention of Russian language students:
At Holy Cross, we instituted a Russian minor, whereby a student can take
six Russian language and literature courses and be "credited" for their
effort on their transcripts.  Our retention in 3rd and 4th year language
classes and in our Russian literature in Russian classes went up
dramatically as a result of the minor.

Also, more along the lines of a gimmick for attracting students.  We have
just started holding "Read Russian in an Hour" sessions a few times each
semester.  The format is a la "Sesame Street," but is effective.  Students
who are curious about Russian but are put off by the alphabet can read
Russian, understand a video clip, and sing "Ochi chernye" while reading the
lyrics in about 45 minutes.  The goal is to demystify Russian.  Last
semester 13 students participated; out of that group 8 are now in 1st
year Russia (50%) of our enrollment in 2 sections.  Also, by participating,
students enter a raffle to win "cool," attractive Russian t-shirts (adver-
tised in the Russian Dressing catalogue).

Hope these suggestions help.
Amy Singleton
Holy Cross