Medill Explores (417-0-22)

Topic

Russian Imperialism: The View from Latvia

Instructors

Elizabeth Shogren

Meeting Info

Meets in Non-General PurposeRm: Mon 9:00AM - 11:50AM
Meets in Non-General PurposeRm: Fri 9:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

This immersive class will provide students an opportunity to learn how Russia's aggressions in Ukraine impact its neighbors and all of NATO, including the United States. The centerpiece of the course will be a week-long trip to Latvia, a NATO member that was a republic of the former Soviet Union until 1991. In Latvia, students will interview experts, Russians exiles and local Latvians. They will visit a military base and the Russian border. Two faculty members who are former foreign correspondents will guide students as they practice foreign reporting, deepen their understanding of world history and current events and gain the experience in being culturally sensitive when reporting in environments different than their own. Prior to leaving for Latvia, the class will interview a former US ambassador to Latvia and a leading scholar on Russian imperialism. Students will read academic and news articles and book chapters to provide context for the trip and grist for story ideas. Following the trip, students will fill in their gaps in reporting and produce stories for their portfolios.

Class Materials (Required)

Reading materials will be provided at no cost to students.

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory