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Marina Balina's research involves Soviet children's literature, particularly fairy tales. In recognition of her teaching and scholarship, she was appointed to the Isaac Funk Professorship in 2007.
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Your hometown?
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St. Petersburg, Russia |
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Alma mater?
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I have several: St. Petersburg State University, Russia; St. Petersburg Pedagogical University, Russia; Potsdam Pedagogical University, Germany. |
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Why Wesleyan?
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I enjoy teaching at a liberal arts college where I can combine both my interests: language pedagogy and studies in literature and culture. |
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Your teaching?
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I am teaching all levels of Russian language, as well as numerous courses in Russian literature and culture in translation. |
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Favorite students?
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I believe I am lucky: students who take Russian are serious and dedicated learners of language and literature. They know that they need to go an extra mile to master Russian and as a rule, they never hesitate to do that. |
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Biggest thrill?
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In teaching language, it is the end of the third semester when I see students who I introduced to the Russian ABC’s be able to communicate and perform creative assignments. |
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For fun?
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I play piano, read, and I love to travel. |
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The best?
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Starbucks chocolate croissant |
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Favorite book?
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Leo Tolstoy—Anna Karenina
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Favorite music group?
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Kronos Quartet |
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Favorite quote?
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A Yiddish proverb: “God, don’t bring me too high, and don’t drop me too low.” |
